Jarman International Core 50 member Melanie Brock was recently awarded the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Neck Ribbon, a high honor conferred by the government of Japan, for her contribution to strengthening economic relations between Japan and Australia.
The award ceremony was held at Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), followed by an audience with His Majesty Emperor Naruhito at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
Born in Australia and with over three decades living in Japan, Melanie is an interpreter, translator, consultant, and CEO Melanie Brock Advisory. Her work combines practical commercial business leadership with language skills to consistently deliver business, regulatory, and partnership outcomes for Japanese and foreign corporations. Melanie is on the board of Mitsubishi Estate, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, and Asahi Group Holdings, and previously served for six years as chair of the Australian and New Zealand Chamber of Commerce in Japan.
Alongside her business achievements, Melanie supported reconstruction efforts following the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, and is a strong advocate for women in Japanese business and society.
Melanie commented to the Financial Review: “Japan has been my world. This kind of public recognition feels like the culmination of a lot of private moments. It’s a bit of an endurance race, making a life in Japan, but when they recognise something, they really do it, and the outpouring of kindness from people I’ve met along the way has been amazing.”
First established in 1875, the Order of the Rising Sun recognizes distinguished service to Japan in various fields. Jarman International offers its warm congratulations to Melanie on her award!