Shunji Murakami

Shunji Murakami is the Founder and CEO of UMITO Partners, a Japan-based ocean impact company working to transform the relationship between people, business and the ocean. With over a decade of experience in ocean conservation, fisheries and seafood sustainability, he brings together expertise in marine ecosystems, business development and international collaboration.

After studying physical geography and business in the United States, Murakami began his career at Patagonia Japan before taking leadership roles in several international organisations, including Wild Salmon Center and Ocean Outcomes. He later served as Executive Vice President and COO of Seafood Legacy, working to advance responsible seafood supply chains and fisheries transformation. In 2021, he founded UMITO Partners to accelerate systemic change across Japan's ocean economy, connecting fishers, businesses, policymakers, scientists and investors.

Today, his work also focuses on advancing blue finance and mobilising investment for ocean innovation. Together with Beyond Impact, he is developing the Blue Frontier Fund, an international impact investment initiative connecting ocean-focused technologies and businesses across Europe and Asia. He is also working with Hatch Blue to advance aquaculture innovation and international collaboration in Japan.

Through his work, Murakami is driving a vision where ocean ecosystem restoration, thriving coastal communities and economic innovation go hand in hand.

Shunji Murakami will be a speaker at A’Pelago Initiative 2027.