SPACETIDE Foundation (Headquarters: Tokyo; Representative: Masayasu Ishida; hereinafter referred to as “SPACETIDE”) announces the following changes to its executive leadership, effective July 1, 2025.

New Executive Team at SPACETIDE (Effective July 1, 2025)

• Chairperson & CEO: Masayasu Ishida (no change)

• Director & CSO: Masashi Sato (formerly Director & COO)

• COO: Francois Poncin (new appointment)

Background and Purpose of the Executive Team Restructure

Since its launch in 2015, SPACETIDE has provided a platform for dialogue and co-creation in the space business sector. In recent years, we have expanded our role as a neutral industry hub and accelerated our international initiatives. Looking ahead to the next decade and with the aim of achieving our vision of “Unlocking Space for All Humanity,” we are strengthening our executive team to support further business growth.

Masashi Sato, formerly COO, will now serve as Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), focusing on developing and advancing SPACETIDE’s long-term growth strategies.

Francois Poncin, appointed as our new COO, brings over 20 years of experience in Asia’s financial sector and has contributed to SPACETIDE as a pro bono advisor for approximately three years. With a deep interest in cislunar orbit, space resource utilization, and on-orbit services and manufacturing, he shares SPACETIDE’s commitment to international cooperation, peaceful use, and sustainability in space. As COO, he will drive engagement with both domestic and international stakeholders.

Message from COO Francois Poncin

“I am delighted and truly honored to join SPACETIDE at this crucial time for the industry.
In a context where cooperation is more important than ever, I am convinced that our mission as a neutral industry hub will keep gaining relevance and impact for the benefit of the entire space industry. At every level – between the public and private sectors; between countries from across the globe; between space and non-space industries; between startups and large groups – we will strive to bring together all key actors and ensure that Space fulfills its potential as a catalyst for social change and economic progress.

As the foundation keeps growing, I would like to thank Masa Ishida and Masashi Sato for their trust and welcome, and acknowledge the marvelous work done by all employees and pro-bono members over the past ten years. Joining such a dedicated team is a privilege.”

  CEO Masayasu Ishida／CSO Masashi Sato／COO François Poncin