Hi, I’m Tomoko

cherry blossom with a castle in the background

Who I am today is deeply rooted in my personal, academic, and professional experiences in Japan, the US, and Canada. My career is built on both corporate and academic teaching experiences, coupled with 15 years at Toyota, where I gained a solid foundation in various world-class business principles and methodologies. Over the last decade, I have successfully applied these transferable skills across diverse sectors, including municipal government, provincial healthcare, not-for-profit, and higher education. A central theme in my career has been a passion for creating environments where individuals and organizations are empowered to thrive. These experiences have equipped me with a deep understanding of strategic alignment, people-centred practices, and the power of engagement.

In my academic role, I teach project management courses and am currently developing a curriculum for a new graduate certificate program in Strategic Change Management, Leadership and Transformation at Conestoga College. Beyond academia, my focus is to help small to-mid-sized organizations to achieve operational and cultural excellence. My approach centres on empowering employees to stay motivated, aligned, and engaged while ensuring that organizational strategies are reflective of and support toward their people.

Additionally, I am committed to giving back to the community - whether through professional associations like the Project Management Institute’s local chapter or the sports clubs our children have been part of. I take pride in contributing my time to meaningful initiatives, connecting with people, organizing and running events, and implementing new processes that drive positive change.

Consider a community where women can engage meaningfully and feel supported by positive and encouraging relationships

Thriving women in Next Chapter Circle (TWINCCL - pronounced ‘twinkle’) is a flagship initiative in its early stages and one I am deeply passionate about. Envisioned as a membership-based community, TWINCCL empowers women in their mid-to-late careers to navigate unique challenges and embrace new opportunities. 

Qualifications

  • Master of Business Administration (MBA)
    Wilfrid Laurier University

  • Certified Toyota Hoshin Kanri Master Trainer
    Global Toyota

  • Certified Facilitator
    Development Dimensions International

  • Project Management Professional (PMP)
    Project Management Institute

  • Certified Change Practitioner
    Prosci

  • Broadening Opportunities for Leadership Development (B.O.L.D.) Certificate
    Diversity Advantage International / Schulich School of Business

  • Digital Lean Sigma Champions Certificate
    SRA Academy

  • Micro-Credentials in various subjects including AI and its Impact on teaching, Intercultural Teaching Skills - Conestoga College

  • My roots

    My name, Tomoko, means “your friend” or “a child with a heart of friendship” in Japanese, a reflection of the values of connection and warmth that I strive to embody in my personal and professional life.

    Hear the pronunciation of my name: Tomoko

  • Connection & Support

    Beyond my professional life, I am deeply connected to my family. They have been a constant source of support and inspiration. I cherish spending time with my loved ones, whether it’s exploring new places, enjoying simple moments together, or supporting each other’s personal and professional growth. My family’s values influence the work I do and the relationships I build.

  • Family Journey

    I was born to Japanese parents in Ottawa during my father’s two-year research tenure at the National Research Council (NRC). We returned to Japan when I was under two, where I spent my childhood. As the only one in my family with dual citizenship, I always knew I wanted to return to Canada. After college in the US, I made my way back to Canada and earned my BA. After some travelling and working in a few resorts, I settled back in Ontario and began my career at Toyota. There, I met my husband, Brian, who had immigrated from Scotland. We bonded over some surprising cultural similarities between Japan and Scotland, and eventually got married. Over the years, our families have become closely connected, with life-long friendships between my Japanese family and Canadian family friends, and the strong ties between my Japanese and Scottish family. We have made our home in Guelph, raising our two teenage boys. I am also blessed with wonderful stepchildren with whom we enjoy many special moments together.