Sumitomo CEO: AI Analyzes Past, Humans Must Envision Future.

In an early September interview, Shingo Ueno, chief executive of Sumitomo Corporation, addressed the evolving role of artificial intelligence in corporate strategy. Ueno recognized generative AI as a highly effective research tool, noting its ability to compress extensive historical data retrieval into instantaneous queries. This efficiency supports his executive methodology, which prioritizes immediate problem resolution and reduces procedural delays across the fifty-five-billion-dollar conglomerate. Despite these operational advantages, Ueno emphasized a fundamental limitation. He introduced the Japanese concept kosoryoku, which translates to the capacity to conceptualize a future that has not yet existed. While machine learning models excel at identifying patterns within historical datasets and projecting incremental improvements, they cannot originate novel strategic visions. Ueno noted that attempting to delegate complex strategic decisions to AI often yields unusable outputs, as the technology remains inherently bound to past information rather than uncharted market dynamics. Ueno clarified that developing kosoryoku does not require radical invention from every employee. Instead, corporate strategy should focus on adapting existing frameworks to contemporary conditions and applying human judgment to direct their evolution. He also highlighted the operational necessity of disconnecting from professional obligations, citing deliberate time away from work as essential for cognitive rest and the generation of fresh strategic concepts. The broader implication for enterprise leadership and the technology sector is clear. As artificial intelligence continues to optimize operational efficiency and streamline information processing, executive focus must shift toward forward-looking vision and strategic foresight. Ueno’s perspective reinforces an emerging industry consensus: artificial intelligence serves as a powerful analytical engine, but human imagination remains the indispensable architect of future business trajectories.