- What led you to choose ASICS?
I was drawn to ASICS because of its philosophy and the exceptional quality of its people, which I felt set it apart from other companies. During my job search, I anticipated that success would be measured strictly by results, but ASICS, with its motto "It's okay to fall, as long as you get back up," emphasized the importance of both the process and the outcome. I found that this approach was deeply embedded in the company's culture, and it resonated strongly with me. Another key factor in my decision was the exceptional quality of the people at ASICS. During the recruitment process, I interacted with HR and alumni, and I found that their mindset and personal qualities aligned with my own values, which played a decisive role in my choice to join the company.
Can you describe your current job responsibilities?
My primary responsibility is factory deadline management. The term "deadline management" may sound simple at first, but ensuring that products reach our customers and the market on time requires extensive communication and coordination not only within the company but also with distributors and factories. There are many unforeseen challenges along the way.
At ASICS, there is a lead time of approximately three months from production to sale, which is critical for ensuring timely product delivery. To meet this timeline, we need to ensure that everything is on track - from confirming that there have been no changes in the sales month to making sure that development schedules are being met and that molds for soles are being ordered on schedule.
ASICS operates on a made-to-order basis, which adds another layer of complexity. We need to ensure that there are no issues with ordering, materials delivery, or quality. After an order is placed, I also handle the post-order adjustments, ensuring that shipments are proceeding smoothly, including confirming that the logistics and transportation are managed effectively. Additionally, I also support projects related to short-lead-time production and local production.
What would you like to challenge in the future at ASICS?
Having worked on factory deadline management, I now have a deeper understanding of the entire process and the upstream connections within the company. Moving forward, I’d like to explore opportunities in merchandising (MD) or development, where I can bring a greater focus on practicality, cost efficiency, and deadlines when it comes to product planning and development.
Additionally, short-lead-time production is an area where I believe my current experience can be leveraged. In order to streamline this process, it's essential to confirm and adjust aspects such as material selection during the development phase. I would be keen to take part in developing items designed for short-lead-time production, as this aligns with my current expertise.
Note: The profile and interview content reflect the information at the time of the interview.
