Sumitomo Corporation

Australia

Sumitomo Australia Pty Ltd (Melbourne Office)

Please tell us about your job.: I am mainly engaged in the trading of steel products such as oil country tubular goods and gas pipes. Every day I am reminded of the scale of our global network as a general trading company as I make contact with the Tokyo headquarters and global branches in Asia, the U.S., Europe, etc. I am always trying to maintain good communications with all the people I meet through my job, including customers and staff attached to other departments. In order to understand and satisfy the needs of steel product users, I need to talk and coordinate with various parties, including steel manufacturers, logistics companies, customs agencies and the company’s Corporate Unit. It is a difficult job that requires a lot of energy and persistence to ensure that careful and detailed explanations are provided, but I find it really interesting and challenging.

In October 2011, my extended family gathered to celebrate the 4th birthday of my son.

Has your impression of Sumitomo Corporation changed since joining the company?: In the past, I worked in Japan for four years and was really impressed by the loyalty and cohesiveness of Japanese company employees. After that experience, I really wanted to work for a Japanese general trading company. After working for an Australian company for a while, I joined Sumitomo Corporation in 2005.
After joining the company, I was surprised at the strong focus placed on Management Principles and Activity Guidelines. At that time, I had a preconception that Sumitomo Corporation employees were so hard working that they didn’t have time to stop and reflect. But in actual fact they actively discuss and share their views on what kind of attitude Sumitomo Corporation employees should have. Now I realize that the company encourages the development of its employees on a human level.

How do you spend your leisure time?: I value time with my wife and three children. My kids especially love going to the beach or park when the sun is shining. My definition of happiness is “My family enjoying a healthy and happy life.” I don’t need much more than that.
Speaking of health, I am currently growing a moustache because I am participating in the Movember campaign. During November, men pledge to “grow a mo” to enhance awareness of cancers that affect men among their circle of friends while at the same time raising money for anti-cancer foundations. I hope this campaign becomes as much of a global success as the Pink Ribbon Campaign.