DigitalBridge and JEXI Launch New Data Center Platform in Japan

NGI launches with an impressive foundational portfolio of data center assets acquired from NEC Corporation, featuring facilities strategically located in the Greater Tokyo and Greater Osaka regions. Notably, NEC will continue to be a strategic customer, highlighting the trust and partnership established between NGI and this major player in the technology sector.

To propel this venture, NGI has assembled a formidable leadership team with deep expertise in technology, telecommunications, and digital infrastructure. Hiroshi Ogasawara has been appointed as President and Chief Executive Officer, bringing a wealth of leadership experience from his previous roles at SCSK Corporation, SCSK NEC Data Center Management, Ltd., and AT TOKYO Corporation. His expertise is expected to be pivotal as NGI navigates the complexities of the Japanese digital landscape.

Masato Hoshino joins as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, contributing over 20 years of experience in telecommunications and digital infrastructure. His prior role as Head of Asia at Colt Technology Services positions him well to drive operational excellence at NGI.

In a further testament to its commitment to strong governance and leadership, Yoshiaki Fujimori has been appointed as Chairman of NGI. Currently the Chairman of Oracle Japan, Fujimori brings over four decades of experience and extensive connections within Japan’s business community.

The leadership team is set on a clear mission. According to Hiroshi Ogasawara, “NGI aims to become a leading enterprise-focused colocation data center platform in Japan, supporting customers' growing requirements for secure, reliable, and scalable digital infrastructure.”

NGI’s growth strategy is multifaceted, incorporating plans for strategic acquisitions, expansion of existing facilities, and selective greenfield developments in key markets across Japan. This proactive approach indicates a strong commitment to not only meeting current demands but also anticipating future needs in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Justin Chang, Senior Managing Director and Head of Asia at DigitalBridge, expressed confidence in NGI's potential, stating, “The formation of NGI reflects DigitalBridge's strategy of creating and scaling digital infrastructure platforms alongside exceptional management teams and strategic partners.” The combination of high-quality data center assets and a seasoned management team is expected to position NGI as a frontrunner in Japan's digital infrastructure domain.

Kenjiro Okamura, Chief Investment Officer and Representative Director at JEXI, emphasized the company’s commitment to driving sustainable value creation within the digital infrastructure sector. He stated, “As a member of the Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group, JEXI is committed to going beyond the role of a pure capital provider,” highlighting an "industrial finance" approach that encompasses business creation and growth support.

This partnership between DigitalBridge and JEXI aims to bridge global and domestic investor capital with Japan's infrastructure businesses, thereby enhancing capital flows and strengthening the nation’s industrial foundation.

The launch of Nippon Gateway Infrastructure marks a pivotal moment for digital infrastructure in Japan. With a strong leadership team, strategic partnerships, and a comprehensive growth strategy, NGI is poised to meet the sophisticated demands of enterprises in an increasingly digital world. As the company sets out to establish itself as a leader in colocation data center services, it will undoubtedly play a crucial role in shaping Japan's digital landscape in the years to come.