On the global stage
Meeting our customers' expectations

Please tell me your reasons for joining the company.

One of the core principles of my job search during my student days was my desire to "join a company that handles world-class products." Among the companies I considered, I was drawn to our company's seat pads, which boast a high market share among domestic automobile manufacturers and possess the potential to become world-class technologically. This led me to decide to join the company. Now, about 10 years after joining, I've gained diverse experience related to seat pads, and I approach my daily work with the determination to become world-class through my own efforts.

Please tell me about your current job responsibilities.

I am in charge of technology and manufacturing management at our group company in Guangzhou, China. Previously, products sold in China were developed under Japanese leadership, but I was transferred here with the mission of establishing a system where development can be completed within China in order to respond more quickly to customer needs. Even though it's the same seat pad, there are unique local needs in China, such as the dislike of the distinctive smell of a new car, and I find the differences between countries and cultures interesting. Also, with the increasing popularity of EVs (electric vehicles) in China, we are working on themes such as developing seat pads that are thin yet comfortable to accommodate the space for batteries installed under the car floor.

Furthermore, our Chinese automotive manufacturers, our clients, have shifted to development systems that complete development in less than half the time in recent years in order to cope with fierce market competition. To meet our clients' need for speed, we are working to improve development efficiency while building trust with local staff. Due to differences in language and culture, there are times when we have differing opinions with local staff. Specifically, Japan tends to emphasize risk and a medium- to long-term perspective, while China tends to emphasize creating change in a shorter period. However, local staff are the ones who best understand the local needs, and above all, we all share the same goal of "meeting our clients' expectations," so we combine our strengths and work on our daily tasks.

What do you find rewarding about your work?

As the person in charge of manufacturing and technology at the factory, being able to be involved in everything from design to mass production is a major attraction. I feel pressure because a single decision has a big impact, but that also makes the work rewarding and allows me to feel my own growth. I also find it interesting that we can not only incorporate Japanese technology locally, but also share manufacturing methods developed in China with other locations, including Japan, fostering healthy competition among group companies.

Are there any memorable experiences you've had in your work?

Our customer demanded higher performance in odorless polyurethane, and we successfully achieved mass production in a short period of time. We accurately understood the customer's specific expectations, balanced cost, delivery time, and scent, and ultimately succeeded through improvements in raw materials and manufacturing methods. This activity received high praise from the customer, and we also achieved improved profitability, so we felt a great sense of accomplishment. I think it was a good experience where the team worked together to turn a crisis into an opportunity.

What do you value most when it comes to your work?

I am always mindful that "the next step in the process is the customer." The products we create are delivered to our customers and then move on to the next stage. I always try to work carefully and thoughtfully, keeping the impact on the customer in mind. Also, even when I encounter failures or difficulties in my work, I believe it is important to switch to a positive mindset and keep trying again to help myself and my team grow.

Please tell me about the appeal of Archem.

1. Opportunities to take on challenges from a young age.

Because opportunities are given from a young age, you can hone a wide range of skills beyond your specialty if you wish. For example, those with an international orientation, like myself, are given the opportunity to be assigned to overseas offices. The company is committed to developing internationally-minded personnel and encourages challenges. Currently, I am working abroad with my family, and the comprehensive support system that includes family members allows me to live each day with peace of mind.

2. Seriousness and sincerity

As stated in our five core values, I believe we have many honest and sincere people within our company. Each individual works diligently and carefully with a strong sense of professionalism, which I think is an extremely important spirit in manufacturing.

Please tell me about your future career vision.

I'd like to apply the knowledge and experience I've gained abroad to other areas of my life.
In the future, I'd like to try my hand at a common department that can handle tasks across different business units, such as business management.