Founder’s Message
Partnering for Change. Empowering People and Organizations to Shape the Future Worldwide.
At Cornerstone Strategy, our name is more than just a metaphor. In architecture, a cornerstone is the first stone laid—the essential base that supports everything built upon it. This image resonated with me deeply. I wanted to create a company that lays the same kind of strong, strategic foundation for people and organizations, especially those striving to grow on the global stage. Over the past ten years, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with over 20 companies to lead projects in HR strategy, organizational transformation, system design, and leadership development. Through that journey, one belief has become unshakable: people and organizations are the true engine of sustainable growth. My path, however, hasn’t always followed a straight line. A major turning point came when my spouse’s international assignment brought us to the United States. I stepped away from my career, embraced life in a new culture, and devoted myself to raising our child. That time away gave me the rare opportunity to reflect—not only on what I had done, but on what truly mattered to me. What emerged was a clear and powerful calling: To use everything I had learned to support Japanese businesses and professionals taking bold steps into the world. That vision led to the founding of Cornerstone Strategy LLC in New Jersey in 2024. Today, we work alongside Japanese companies operating in or entering the U.S. market, supporting leaders and HR teams as trusted partners in their journey. By combining the precision of consulting with the depth of coaching, we strive not only to solve surface-level challenges, but to spark meaningful transformation from within. Our logo reflects this very mission: its lower-left corner represents a solid foundation, while the upper-right rises toward the future. This is how I see our role—as the cornerstone on which your ambitions can rise, strong and resilient. Japan to the world We are here to walk with you, every step of the way.Founder & CEO
Shinsuke Kiyono
Background
- Over 10 years of experience driving transformation in the field of organizational and talent development at leading firms including Accenture Japan, Deloitte Tohmatsu Consulting, and JDSC.
- Led a wide range of projects such as HR strategy formulation, leadership development systems, organizational culture transformation, digital transformation (DX), workstyle innovation, and HR system redesign. Participated in over 20 organizational transformation initiatives across various industries.
- Relocated to the United States in 2022 due to a family assignment abroad, taking a career break to focus on parenting and household responsibilities. This time of reflection sparked a renewed desire to support Japanese organizations through the lens of people and organizational transformation. Founded Cornerstone Strategy LLC in New Jersey in 2024.
Certifications
- ACC, International Coaching Federation (ICF)
- Master Practitioner of NLP, American Board of NLP
- LAB Profile® Master Practitioner
- Anger Management Specialist Category I, National Anger Management Association (NAMA)
- Anger Management Facilitator®
Memberships
- Individual Member, International Coaching Federation (ICF)
- Individual Member, Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM)
- Individual Member, Payroll.org (PAYO)
Consulting
20+ projects
12 industries
6 areas
Training & Workshop
300+
participants
participants
Coaching
300+
hours
hours
Purpose
Japan
to the
World
to the
World
There is a quiet strength in Japan—one the world has yet to fully discover.
It lives in the care behind every act of craftsmanship. In a culture that honors people before processes. In a refined sense of beauty and depth, shaped patiently over time. We’ve always believed in this. And we believe that when these values are seen, felt, and understood, they can resonate deeply—across cultures, across oceans—and become a force that shapes the future. “Japan to the World” is not simply about expansion. It is about reflection. Rediscovery. It is about Japanese people and organizations pausing to look inward, to recognize their unique strengths, and to step outward—not by imitation, but by intention. At Cornerstone Strategy, we exist to support that first step. As your partner, we help build the foundation. We open up new perspectives. And together, we create the beginning of meaningful change—not just for today, but for the future you’re ready to shape.- Mission
- Supporting the growth of Japanese people and organizations. Unlocking their potential. Building a future connected to the world.
- Vision
- Through coaching and consulting, we bring global perspectives, new ways of working, and pathways to growth―building the capability and confidence to thrive worldwide.
- Value
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-
Start with Purpose
We help people and organizations move with clarity―aligned with what truly matters. -
From People to Organizations
When individuals thrive as themselves, strong organizations emerge. We value uniqueness, culture, and rhythm as the seeds of growth. -
Strength Comes from Within
The power to change is already there. We help uncover and grow it. -
Grow Together
We grow through shared learning, mutual insight, and dialogue. -
Beyond Boundaries
We bring global insights within reach, helping clients see and act beyond the familiar.
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Company Profile
- Company Name
- Cornerstone Strategy LLC
- Establishment
- October, 2024
- Founder
- Shinsuke Kiyono
- Business Domain
-
Coaching
- Executive Coaching
- Business Coaching
- Career Coaching
- Team Coaching
HR Consulting
- Virtual CHRO
- HR Strategy Development
- Global Talent Development
- Location
- New Jersey, USA