Salim Alnaas

Building Business Bridges Between Japan, Libya & Beyond

Salim Alnaas
Building Business Bridges Between Japan, Libya & Beyond 🌍

Originally from Libya, Salim Alnaas studied International Business at Temple University Japan before building his career across startups in gaming, technology, and cybersecurity. Today, he leads marketing at CISOPOLIS, an AI-powered cybersecurity platform focused on streamlining security operations for organizations of all sizes.

Having grown up across different countries and cultures, Salim has always been interested in connecting people and opportunities across borders. Today, that perspective shapes his work between Japan and international markets, including helping Japanese and global companies understand and navigate opportunities in Libya.

What are you currently building?

Helping grow CISOPOLIS through marketing, partnerships, and business development, with a focus on streamlining cybersecurity operations for organizations of all sizes. Much of Salim's work is relationship-driven, from meeting companies at industry events to developing long-term partnerships.

His cross-border work also extends beyond Japan. Salim helps international and Japanese companies explore opportunities in Libya, using his understanding of both markets to help them navigate local relationships and business environments.

What excites you about Japan?

The people. After four years in Japan, he's come to appreciate the dedication and professionalism that define the country's business culture. While things may move more slowly than in other markets, he believes that steady progress built on trust creates stronger, longer-lasting partnerships. He also values Japan's welcoming startup community and the genuine relationships he's built through networking.

A risk that changed your trajectory?

Choosing to build a career in Japan despite not being fluent in Japanese or having a technical background. Breaking into the startup ecosystem wasn't easy, but taking opportunities under challenging circumstances helped him gain the experience and network that continue to shape his career today.

A habit that has had the biggest impact?

Networking. Naturally introverted, Salim once found it difficult to approach new people. Over time, pushing himself to attend events and start conversations transformed one of his biggest weaknesses into one of his greatest strengths.

Advice for your 20s?

Take language learning seriously. Growing up in a diplomat family, he had the opportunity to experience different countries and cultures, and now wishes he had taken more advantage of learning each local language. Today, he's focused on improving his Japanese and believes language is one of the most valuable tools for building meaningful relationships.