The Inspiring Leadership Journey of Akinori Maemura in Internet Governance

Celebrating Leadership in Internet Governance

In the intricate world of internet operations, individuals like Akinori Maemura have left an indelible mark through their dedication and leadership. As the Chief Policy Officer at JPNIC and a former long-serving Chair of the APNIC Executive Council (EC), Maemura’s contributions have been pivotal in driving the effective coordination of Internet operations across the Asia Pacific region and beyond. From his early days as an engineer exploring uncharted territories of TCP/IP to holding significant roles in organizations like ICANN, Maemura’s inspiring journey exemplifies commitment, innovation, and collaboration in the field of Internet governance.

The APNIC Elected Leaders series aims to shed light on such journeys, offering valuable insights, sharing motivations, and encouraging others to actively participate in shaping the future of the Internet. For Maemura, what began as a humble foray into new technologies in the 1990s has now evolved into decades of impactful work benefiting regional and global Internet communities.

The Beginnings of a Trailblazing Career

Maemura’s introduction to the world of Internet operations was nothing short of a crash course in innovation. Tasked with building an Internet service during his tenure at NEC’s Network Service Unit in 1994, he found himself navigating a world unfamiliar to him. Transitioning from X.25 packet switching to the emerging TCP/IP protocol, Maemura’s early experiences were defined by a blend of learning, adaptation, and ambition. Commercial Internet services were rapidly expanding in Japan at the time, with companies like AT&T Jens and the Internet Initiative Japan (IIJ) pioneering the landscape. NEC’s entry into the arena, under Maemura’s efforts, showcased the growing complexity and potential of the Internet in Japan.

Coordinating operational aspects like IP address and domain management, Internet Exchange Points (IXPs), and Network Operator Groups (NOGs) became central to his role. Despite modest resources — such as 9.6kbps PSTN lines and 10Mbps Ethernet — Maemura embraced the responsibility of fostering collaboration among ISPs and coordinating networks on a larger scale. This period laid the groundwork for his leadership style, blending technical expertise with a collaborative spirit.

Driving Internet Growth in the Asia Pacific Region

As a member of the APNIC EC from 2000 to 2016, and its Chair for 13 of those years, Maemura played an integral role in addressing the challenges of a rapidly evolving Internet landscape. Under his guidance, APNIC tackled critical moments such as the depletion of IPv4 resources, the establishment of the Number Resource Organization (NRO), and global initiatives like the Internet Governance Forum and the IANA stewardship transition. These milestones underscore not only his technical contributions but also his ability to navigate the broader governance and policy implications of Internet operations.

Reflecting on his time as Chair, Maemura emphasizes the importance of collaboration and inclusivity. He notes that even those uncertain about their expertise in Internet policies can contribute meaningfully by engaging in discussions, providing feedback, and bringing unique, real-world perspectives into the conversation. His approachable leadership style, grounded in trust and a focus on community-building, has made him a respected figure in the field.

A Modern Vision for Internet Governance

Today, as JPNIC’s Chief Policy Officer and a representative on the NRO Number Council, Maemura continues to advocate for global coordination in Internet governance. His extensive experience with organizations like ICANN has prepared him to handle challenges ranging from technical resource allocation to fostering alignment between regional and global Internet governance processes. As he works on revisiting foundational frameworks like ICP-2, Maemura remains committed to ensuring that the Internet continues to serve as a powerful tool for innovation and connectivity.

His advice to those seeking to contribute to Internet governance is both simple and profound: start small, stay engaged, and prioritize inclusivity. Whether through translation efforts, participating in policy discussions, or fostering connections within the community, every contribution matters. For Maemura, the Internet’s development is a shared responsibility — one that requires a balance of technical expertise, institutional awareness, and a deep commitment to the community.

The Legacy of Leadership and Inspiration

Akinori Maemura’s journey stands as a testament to the power of persistence, curiosity, and collaboration. From his early challenges navigating TCP/IP protocols to guiding significant policy initiatives on a global scale, his career reflects the transformative role one individual can play in shaping the Internet’s future. As the Internet continues to evolve, leaders like Maemura remind us of the importance of adaptability, empathy, and a willingness to serve for the greater good.

In a field as dynamic and essential as Internet governance, Maemura’s story inspires both seasoned professionals and newcomers to take an active role in contributing to a connected and inclusive world. As he aptly puts it, “It is never boring — and it’s on you.”