Hajime Uba is the CEO of Kura Sushi USA, Inc., a company known for its unique dining experience centered around conveyor belt sushi. He has been with Kura since its inception in the U.S. in 2008 after joining the parent...

Hajime Uba is the CEO of Kura Sushi USA, Inc., a company known for its unique dining experience centered around conveyor belt sushi. He has been with Kura since its inception in the U.S. in 2008 after joining the parent company, Kura Japan, in 2000. Uba holds a Bachelor’s degree in Economics from Keio University in Japan and has a significant background in the restaurant industry. Before leading Kura Sushi USA, he managed over 100 restaurants in Japan and played a key role in expanding the Kura brand east of Japan. In terms of compensation, Hajime Uba earned $650,417 in 2022, which included a salary of $369,167 and an annual cash bonus. His compensation reflects the company's performance goals, notably tied to financial and strategic objectives. Aside from financial aspects, Uba showed confidence in his company by actively trading stock in Kura Sushi, with notable transactions seeing values as high as $416K in early 2024. This is a clear sign he believes in the future of Kura Sushi and its growth potential. Under his leadership, the company has navigated through challenging times, including the COVID-19 pandemic, maintaining operations and even achieving growth. He remains actively involved in the board and executive decisions, directly impacting the company’s strategic direction. Uba embodies a blend of experience, business acumen, and dedication to expanding Kura Sushi's unique brand in a competitive market.