Proposal skills for the future
Sales that support mobility

Please tell me about your previous work experience.

I joined Bridgestone Chemicals West Japan Co., Ltd. in 2001 as a mid-career hire in the sales department of the industrial chemicals business at the Kurume plant. Subsequently, I gained experience working in the automotive sales department, transferring to the Kurume plant and the Komaki plant. Currently, I am the General Manager of the Second Automotive Business Division, and I am responsible for overall management and proposal sales of the Nagoya and Kurume sales departments, the Tosu plant, and the Komaki plant from the Nagoya plant.

Please tell me about your current responsibilities.

In the industrial chemicals business of Archem Inc., I am engaged in sales of automotive-related parts primarily made from polyurethane foam and EPDM foam. I propose and supply high-performance parts such as interior decoration, soundproofing/vibration damping, and waterproof seals to automobile manufacturers and parts manufacturers, contributing to improved vehicle comfort and solving our customers' quality challenges. In recent years, we have also focused on developing the market for environmentally friendly products with a view to CN (carbon neutrality) and CE (circular economy). While constantly keeping up with the latest market trends, we are working to achieve sustainable business growth by making high-value-added proposals that lead to improved production efficiency for our customers.

Are there any memorable experiences from your work so far?

What impressed me the most was their proactive approach to proposing improvements to the comfort level of SUVs.
At the time, the challenges of "stiffness" and "vibration" during driving were addressed by proactively proposing our company's strengths in high-performance components for soundproofing, vibration damping, and decorative finishes. We secured their adoption, contributing significantly to increased sales and production volume.
Later, when we faced supply shortages due to a rapid increase in production, I worked closely with the manufacturing and technical departments, going beyond the confines of sales. I spearheaded capital investment and the construction of new production lines, establishing a stable supply system. My experience of consistently handling everything from understanding customer needs to establishing a mass production system is a major strength of mine today.

What's the atmosphere and interpersonal relationships like at your workplace?

In addition to an environment that makes it easy to balance work and family life, it is a workplace with an open atmosphere where opinions can be freely exchanged regardless of position or department.
A company culture has taken root where employees can consult with managers, including the general manager, on an equal footing, and I feel that communication is easy on a daily basis.
Furthermore, regular company recreational activities foster active interaction among employees, and this environment leads to smooth collaboration across departmental boundaries. I believe that the cooperative relationships and teamwork built on mutual support are also major strengths of our company.

What do you feel are the essential or important elements required for your current job?

In the sales department, I believe the most important thing is to build relationships where customers, business partners, and our own company can all benefit. This involves not only going beyond existing transactions, but constantly analyzing market trends and accurately understanding the challenges and expectations of each stakeholder. Then, by visualizing the benefits for each party, translating them into concrete measures, and collaborating with internal and external stakeholders beyond the confines of sales, we build sustainable relationships based on trust. I believe that building relationships where everyone can grow and improve together is a crucial element required of the sales department.

What are the attractive aspects of Archem Business Japan?

Our strengths lie in our long-standing expertise in high-performance polyurethane foam technology, and in recent years, our active efforts in developing sustainable materials using plant-based raw materials such as coconut. Furthermore, because we are involved in every stage from planning to product development, we offer an environment where you can truly experience the joys of manufacturing. We also have a flat organizational culture where you can easily consult with colleagues regardless of position or department, and where individual autonomy and creativity are respected. We believe that our open corporate culture, which encourages proactive challenges in creating new value, is another major attraction of our company.

MESSAGE

Please provide a message for prospective employees.

Trying to do everything perfectly from the start often doesn't work out as planned.
That's why I want you to take on challenges without fear of failure. At our company, we view failure as a "learning opportunity" and have a culture that actively encourages new challenges. You don't have to worry alone. When you're in trouble, reliable senior colleagues will be there to support you. I'm truly looking forward to the day we can work together.