Our People

Naoto Jo

Co-founder & CEO, SAORI Global LLC / Retreat Host

Naoto is one of the grandchildren of Misao Jo, the founder of SAORI, and began working for SAORI in 1999. While supporting his father, who was then leading the company, he gained experience across many areas of the business, including manufacturing, finance, sales, shipping, and customer support in Japan and overseas.

He also supported his father in establishing SAORINOMORI in 2004 and continued to be involved in the operation of the studio.

In 2023, he co-founded SAORI Global LLC with Akiko as an independent company and became responsible for its international operations. His current work includes finance, sales, shipping and export operations, and supporting customers and studios outside Japan, while also overseeing the company’s overall operations. 

During the Retreat, he supports participants as a host and works with Akiko and the instructor team as needed.

Akiko Jo

Co-founder & COO, SAORI Global LLC / Retreat Host

Akiko married Naoto in 2003 and moved to Osaka, where she began her SAORI practice and started helping with the family business.

At that time, the systems for international operations were not yet fully established. Drawing on her previous experience in international business, she worked on English-language materials and publications, customer support, and the development of systems and resources for international operations, in collaboration with Naoto, other family members, staff, and studios outside Japan.

As SAORI’s international activities grew, she became dedicated to international operations. In 2023, she co-founded SAORI Global LLC with Naoto. Her current work includes organizing SAORI Retreats, translation and design of publications, developing business systems and services, and supporting customers and studios outside Japan.

During the Retreat, she supports participants’ learning through guidance, coordination, and communication with the instructor team.