Leveraging IT Knowledge
to Drive Business Innovation
I decided to join Nissan because I wanted to contribute to building systems that serve as the core of the business, such as business planning, based on the IT system expertise I had cultivated. In my previous role at an OA equipment sales company, I was mainly responsible for developing IT infrastructure environments for corporate clients. I often engaged in pre-sales activities—accompanying sales and negotiations, providing technical proposals—which allowed me to proactively address customer challenges.
However, I felt frustrated because I couldn’t truly see whether my work was making a real difference for the customer, as I was moving on to the next client as soon as deployment was completed. Additionally, since my responsibilities were based in Tokyo, I hoped to work in a more global environment next.
At that time, I came across Nissan. I was attracted not only by its alliances with overseas manufacturers but also by its corporate culture—embodied in the “Nissan WAY” and other action guidelines—and its unique initiatives. Although I had no experience in the automotive industry, I took a bold step and decided to join Nissan.
Supporting Customers in Emergencies
with Highly Reliable Systems
The Global Aftersales Engineering Department plans and develops initiatives from multiple angles to support mechanics and parts dealers at Nissan dealerships worldwide. Our work includes designing diagnostic equipment for vehicle failures, providing electronic service manuals, and creating training programs for technicians.
In my role, I am responsible for the ‘Web Part Catalog,’ a system that helps locate and order parts needed for vehicle repairs. While working closely with vendors to manage the quality of the existing system, we are also upgrading to new systems utilizing digital transformation (DX) to make work more convenient and efficient for users.
The Web Parts Catalog is used daily by field staff who directly serve Nissan vehicle owners. Although it’s not a frontline department, I see this as a close-to-the-workplace role because it directly impacts whether we can provide smooth and accurate after-sales parts information to customers in need.
Visualizing Ideas to Make Them
Understandable for Everyone
Planning the Web Parts Catalog is both interesting and challenging because it’s so close to the actual site. We receive direct feedback such as “easy to use” and “it has made work easier,” which is rewarding. However, introducing new ideas often faces resistance in the service field. To address this, before implementing new features, we always gather staff at the field level to explain our plans and exchange opinions.
One of the skills I learned in my previous job that has been very useful is “visualizing and illustrating ideas clearly.” Since not all customers I interacted with were IT experts, I had to communicate complex concepts visually. Nissan vehicles include parts from overseas suppliers, and there are many opportunities to coordinate with these international partners. Despite differences in language and reporting cultures, visual communication helps us align perspectives efficiently.
The Joy of Teamwork
I Discovered at Nissan
Joining Nissan taught me the importance of working collaboratively through effective communication. Initially, I focused on improving my industry expertise and engineering skills. However, I realized that the knowledge and insights gained through conversations with various colleagues inside and outside the company are more valuable than what I learned from books.
Regarding English, I found that using it in daily work was the fastest way to improve. Depending on the role, it might be the best environment for those who want to challenge themselves with international communication.
Looking ahead, I want to further develop my organizational management skills by making full use of my experience so far. I used to prefer working alone, but at Nissan, I’ve come to enjoy collaborating as a team to achieve results. My goal is to contribute to building better business by involving not only our internal teams but also overseas bases and suppliers, creating a truly global organization.
