A Turning Point in a Global Crisis:
Pursuing Scale and Growth
In my previous role, I was responsible for purchasing semiconductors for smartphones. During the COVID-19 pandemic, I negotiated multiple times with suppliers amid a global semiconductor shortage. Through this experience, I learned that the government was prioritizing automotive production, and I became aware of the enormous market size and procurement scale within the automotive industry. This inspired me to challenge myself in this field.
There are two main reasons I chose Nissan. First, because of its proactive approach to advanced technologies. In autonomous driving, features like Propilot 2.0, which users can experience firsthand, have already been put into practical use. I was attracted to the idea of being involved in manufacturing that creates innovative and exciting products. Second, because of its global environment. I decided to join Nissan’s alliance with Renault and Mitsubishi, as I saw it as a great challenge and an opportunity for growth, especially since I have no overseas experience.
Optimal Procurement and Continuous Improvement
- A Dynamic Environment for Mid-Career Recruits
Currently, I am part of the procurement team for automotive air conditioning parts, serving as a deputy manager responsible for price negotiations and procurement strategies. Due to the large number of parts and suppliers involved in the air conditioning system, I find it very rewarding to see my procurement strategies reflected in actual operations and to see tangible results.
Our team consists entirely of mid-career hires, each bringing their own experience and industry knowledge, which allows us to develop optimal purchasing policies from multiple perspectives. This environment of open idea exchange, regardless of role or background, is very stimulating.
Most of the air conditioning parts are manufactured at domestic supplier plants, so I visit suppliers almost weekly to work on cost reduction initiatives directly at the manufacturing sites. Collaborating with suppliers and design departments to develop and implement improvement measures gives me a strong sense of achievement. Being involved at the forefront of manufacturing while feeling the energy of the workplace is truly the essence of this role.
The Appeal of Nissan’s Procurement:
Connecting the World and Manufacturing
The greatest attraction of working at Nissan is its diverse workforce and global environment. Our procurement department has many mid-career hires and numerous international colleagues, enabling us to exchange ideas daily with people from various backgrounds. Respecting the experience and perspectives gained in my previous roles, I find myself constantly inspired by the culture of seeking the best solutions through open dialogue.
I also feel Nissan’s strength as a global company. Engaging directly with overseas bases and suppliers, I experience firsthand the differences in speed and negotiation styles, which makes working on a global scale truly enjoyable.
Furthermore, Nissan emphasizes optimizing Total delivery Cost (TdC), including development, logistics, and quality costs. Visiting supplier sites to observe manufacturing processes and understand actual issues is also a key part of our approach. This “procurement aligned with manufacturing,” based on real field information, is one of Nissan’s greatest strengths.
Challenging Myself as a Global Leader
and Envisioning the Future
My goal is to become a procurement leader who can operate from a truly global perspective. By gaining experience through overseas assignments and direct communication with local suppliers and engineers, I want to build a more effective and efficient global procurement network.
Nissan’s procurement activities cover everything from small parts like screws to software, production equipment, and logistics—an exciting field that constantly demands new knowledge and ideas. By engaging across various categories, I aim to develop my ability to see the big picture of manufacturing and to propose innovative solutions that contribute to technological advancement and product excellence.
Since we are closest to our suppliers, I want to help Nissan improve its competitiveness not only through cost reduction but also by creating added value and innovative proposals. Nissan is a company where people from diverse backgrounds can leverage their experience and thrive. I, too, transitioned from a different industry, but I was welcomed by colleagues who valued my fresh perspective, allowing me to grow. With a focus on both global thinking and close collaboration with the workplace, every day is a new opportunity to learn and discover. For those eager to challenge themselves and contribute their experience to the team, Nissan offers the perfect environment. Let’s create new value together.
