TNL Mediagene Restructures Leadership, Targets AI Products and Cost Cuts in 2026
TNL Mediagene has reorganized its executive team and outlined 2026 priorities focused on reducing costs, achieving profitability, and building AI-powered products. The Tokyo-based digital media and advertising technology company promoted Chief Operating Officer Motoko Imada to Chief Executive Officer and moved former CEO Joey Chung to President, where he will focus on corporate development and investor relations.
Imada will oversee day-to-day operations, profit and loss performance, and a comprehensive review of the company's business portfolio. The review may result in divesting, downsizing, or closing underperforming digital media brands, the company said.
AI and Technology Get Dedicated Focus
Chief Technology Officer Richard Lee received expanded authority as Head of Research and Development. He will lead a separate team focused exclusively on developing and commercializing AI products, reporting directly to the CEO.
The company has already deployed AI-powered tools to support editorial workflows across its media operations. It is also advancing an AI and large language model-based search optimization product designed to work alongside its digital studio services, which include branding and marketing strategy work.
TNL Mediagene expects to launch or advance at least one new revenue business during 2026, with AI products positioned as a core growth pillar.
Financial Targets and Structural Changes
The company aims to deliver organic revenue growth, achieve positive EBITDA, and reduce selling, general, and administrative expenses as a percentage of revenue. Management plans to implement cost reviews, prioritize high-margin projects, and drive efficiency through shared services and process automation across its Japan and Taiwan operations.
Co-founder Hiroto Kobayashi has joined the Board of Directors. General Counsel TJ Park was promoted to Chief Corporate Affairs Officer while retaining his legal role, and will support governance initiatives and investor communications.
Chairman Marcus Brauchli said the board is focused on "operational discipline, strategic transformation, and strong governance," adding that companies need to move quickly to adopt new technologies and pivot toward higher-value business lines.
The company operates digital media brands in Japanese, Chinese, and English across business, technology, lifestyle, and culture verticals, and employs approximately 480 people.
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