Operating the factory with on-site capabilities
Production command center

Please tell me about your previous work experience.

In 1992, I joined Bridgestone Chemicals West Japan Co., Ltd. as a mid-career hire at the Kurume Plant, working in the manufacturing of industrial block foam. Subsequently, I was transferred to the Tosu Plant and the Yoshida Plant, and later became the plant manager of the Tosu Plant. Currently, I am the General Manager of the Second Seat Pad Business Division, and I am responsible for the overall management of the Tosu Plant and the Hofu Plant.

Please tell me about your current responsibilities.

The Seat Pad Business Division II, centered around its two locations—the Tosu Plant in Saga Prefecture and the Hofu Plant in Yamaguchi Prefecture—contributes to the development of Japanese automobile manufacturers. As the division head, my role is to create an environment that allows each manufacturing site to carry out production activities smoothly on a daily basis. It's easy to say in a few words, but manufacturing is like a living organism, and even when trying to produce the same thing every time, things often don't go as planned. Therefore, I always manage with the actual site and actual products in mind. In order to continue optimal operations, I accurately grasp the current situation, anticipate potential risks that may occur in the future, and proactively solve problems to improve the operational efficiency of the entire factory. At the same time, I am working to reduce costs while maintaining that state, which will lead to strengthening the management foundation.

Are there any memorable experiences from your work so far?

My starting point was the prototype work I did for seat pads, which I experienced shortly after joining the company when I was transferred to the Tosu factory.
At the time, I was completely clueless, but I participated in the project as a prototype manager, and learned the difficulties and joys of creating a single product while collaborating with many related departments such as sales, purchasing, planning, development, and materials development.
There were times when our opinions clashed, but I will never forget the feeling of accomplishment when we all ultimately came together and demonstrated strong teamwork.
The importance of cross-departmental collaboration that I learned through this experience forms a strong foundation that supports me now as a general manager overseeing the organization.

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

The workplace atmosphere is cheerful, and I have a close relationship with my team members within my department, where we can talk about anything like we're friends.
We have an open and communicative environment where we carefully listen to each other's opinions, sometimes engage in serious and honest discussions, and at other times laugh together over trivial matters.
We have a relationship of mutual respect and trust, and we work as one team, transcending departmental boundaries such as sales and technology, to support stable manufacturing at the factory.

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

As a general manager, I believe that the most important thing is the ability to take a broad view of the entire factory and to make predictions and evaluations with a forward-looking perspective. It requires the ability to quickly identify and analyze on-site issues, and to respond in a series of ways from root cause analysis to improvement. However, this cannot be accomplished by one person alone. Therefore, I always keep in mind the importance of daily inspections and continuous communication with team members, as well as the sensitivity to pick up on small changes hidden on the factory floor and a broad perspective.

What are the attractive aspects of Archem Business Japan?

One of the most appealing aspects of our company is the tangible sense of accomplishment we get from seeing the products we pour our hearts into creating actually benefit society. Seeing cars equipped with our seats driving around the world, or reading articles in magazines praising the ride comfort and seat quality, fills us with immense pride. Personally, every time I drive a car with our products installed, I feel the value and social contribution firsthand. This ability to feel the impact of our work on everyday life and to approach manufacturing with such pride is a major draw of our company.

MESSAGE

Please provide a message for prospective employees.

Our seat pads are used in various locations around the world, supporting people's comfortable travel. One of the greatest rewards of working at our company is knowing that the results of your work contribute to the comfort and happiness of people around the world. Join us and let's deliver better comfort to the world with great pride.