Yosuke Kubo

Background

About Yosuke Kubo

As Chief Operating Officer and Head of Business Development at Helical Fusion, a pioneering fusion energy startup in Japan and the spin-out of the National Institute for Fusion Science (NIFS), I am at the forefront of revolutionizing the energy sector. Our mission at Helical Fusion is to lead the commercialization of fusion power plants. We are leveraging the groundbreaking Heliotron stellarator technology, primarily developed in Japan, and exemplified by the Large Helical Device (LHD)- one of the world’s most advanced stellarators known for its record-breaking plasma duration. This technology represents a realistic and robust pathway towards commercializing fusion energy. We are also innovating in component technologies like superconducting cables, contributing to the future of sustainable energy solutions. Prior to joining Helical Fusion, I amassed 15 years of diverse experience at Mitsui & Co, Ltd, a major Japanese conglomerate. My career spans the entire energy supply chain, from upstream investments to downstream manufacturing, covering a spectrum of products from traditional oil & gas to next-generation energy solutions. My roles at Mitsui & Co, Ltd included: Operating as a senior strategist in the strategy department, focusing on investor relations and budget strategy for Mitsui’s LNG business. Leading the commodity trading unit (METS), being responsible on P&L, managing logistics, managing risk through future instruments, and initiating a carbon credit trading unit. Heading a major maintenance project with a budget exceeding $50 million at a seaborne terminal. Serving as a refinery planner at ENEOS (formerly TonenGeneral). Leading commercial operations in oil & gas upstream, orchestrating M&A deals worth up to $1 billion. My experience is characterized by a track record of successful leadership in high-stakes environments, a deep understanding of the energy sector's nuances, and a commitment to driving innovation in sustainable energy.