By the time this
article is published, hopefully, I will have completed my first year
working at
Daabon Organic Japan Co. Ltd. When describing this experience I have to
use the
words Bill Gates used in defining his expectations about the future….I
am an
“impatient optimist.”
It is a great honor
to represent Daabon Group and Colombia in this part of the world,
and to be
part of the reduced number of companies with Colombian roots that
have a
permanent presence in Japan…of which there are in fact only two,
making it a
double challenge that we are more than happy to undertake.
Contrasting the
competitive advantages we have as a global group, together with the
experience
and track record developed by Daabon Organic Japan Co. Ltd since its
creation
back in 2001, and particularly the trends in this exciting region,
it’s not
hard to visualize opportunities to try to envision the ingredients
necessary
for success. First, as a local team, we
must share a common vision for the next three to five years, aligned
with the
vision of our headquarters. Thinking too long term may not be sound
provided
the dynamism of the Asian markets. Making small adjustments to the
roles each
one of us plays, establishing clearer responsibilities and
objectives, and at
the same time providing the necessary tools, empowerment and rewards
to the
team, are other essential ingredients. Most of the objectives we
pursue have
already been achieved by other international offices, so enhanced
networking
and connection with these offices worldwide and our headquarters is
fundamental.
Even after one year
of being part of Daabon Organic Japan Co. Ltd, and several years
after my first
contact with the Group, I am learning new things every day. My
Japanese colleagues, who have opened their
minds and hearts, and have proven their extreme patience towards me,
have been
true agents of change. I am sure their contribution can transcend
frontiers.
Japan is a unique
market and the whole Asian neighbourhood is quite active and will
probably
continue to be over the next 30 years, so we must think regionally.
While some
of our business is in a mature stage in Japan, others are just
starting in
neighbouring countries, like Korea or China.
“Impatient
optimism” means believing better things will come and being
impatient for them
to do so.