Bringing Multi-Industry Experience to the Frontline
of Automotive Innovation
In my previous role as an external strategy consultant, I worked with numerous global companies across various industries. Through these experiences, I became especially interested in the automotive sector, which is undergoing dramatic transformation through new alliances and M&A activities.
At that time, Nissan was recognized as a top innovator because of its pioneering technology that fosters product development through creative destruction. I also believed that Nissan, with its cutting-edge technology, would offer opportunities for my career growth and personal development.
Witnessing “World-Changing Innovation”
at the Nissan Leaf
My decision to join Nissan was driven by the launch of the Nissan Leaf. During a press preview I participated in as an external consultant, the Leaf was praised as a highly competitive move within the automotive industry. I was deeply impressed by how the Leaf was both an inevitable choice for customers seeking electric vehicles and a highly innovative one.
The development of the Leaf opened up new business horizons for Nissan. Creating electric vehicles involves more than just building cars powered by electricity; it requires generating additional value. We also need to explore all related business areas, including energy and mobility services. Nissan is increasingly playing a key role within the alliance to develop these new business domains.
For me, Nissan was the ideal company—aspiring to have a strong global influence and offering the environment to make a real difference. My role involves engaging in initiatives that challenge traditional approaches, creating significant value. I joined Nissan with high expectations of contributing to society and being part of meaningful innovation.
The Frontline of Transformation
- Expanding and Evolving with a Wide Range of Experiences
I started my career at Nissan as an internal consultant. At that time, many issues needed to be addressed, and I was glad to be able to apply my external consulting experience to Nissan’s challenges. Later, I joined a department tasked with revitalizing the light commercial vehicle business and subsequently became part of the former Alliance Mobility Services team.
From 2017 to 2018, I experienced an exhilarating period when expectations for autonomous driving technology were soaring. Many companies believed that the era of self-driving cars was imminent, and our team received a multitude of ideas and proposals. Currently, as electric and autonomous vehicles become mainstream, Nissan is united in its efforts to navigate the waves of disruption (creative destruction).
My career at Nissan has been diverse, involving roles I never imagined—such as working on light commercial vehicles—and I am satisfied with the variety of tasks I have been able to take on. Additionally, Nissan offers opportunities to collaborate with overseas teams, which not only deepens our understanding of the automotive industry but also supports personal career development.
Pride as a “Change Agent”
Who Embraces Change and Inspires Passion
Motivation is crucial in our work today. To be a true “change agent,” one must be both creative and persistent. Our business often involves coordinating and adjusting various strategies and plans in collaboration with different teams.
The automotive industry is constantly evolving. Sometimes, we are required to make bold, difficult changes, but Nissan has a strong system in place to support this. Nissan actively pursues necessary changes and acts swiftly when the business demands it. Thanks to this environment, I find my work rewarding and inspiring. I believe this support system empowers us to develop innovative products that will shape Nissan’s future, while maintaining a sense of passion and purpose in our daily work.