Koji Endo, Chairman Kai Group, Episode #232 Japan's Top Business Interviews

Koji Endo, Chairman Kai Group, Episode #232 (Audio here:https://bit.ly/4gk6l3G) (Video here:https://bit.ly/4h8jFJl) Japan's Top Business Interviews

Koji Endo's approach to leadership in Japan offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of running a business in a culturally rich and nuanced environment. As the third-generation leader of the Kai Group, Endo inherited a legacy steeped in tradition and innovation. He took over the presidency at 33, following the sudden passing of his father, and transformed the company from a predominantly domestic enterprise into a global brand. This journey required balancing respect for the past with a vision for the future, a common challenge in Japanese family-run businesses.

Endo’s leadership emphasized long-term thinking, a cornerstone of Japanese business culture. Unlike the transactional and short-term focus often seen in Western business practices, Japanese leaders prioritize stability, trust, and sustainable growth. This philosophy shaped his approach to building relationships with partners and his commitment to ensuring the company’s enduring success.

A key part of Endo’s preparation for leadership involved working outside the family business. Like many successors in Japan, he spent time at another company to gain practical experience and understand the mindset of frontline workers. This broadened his perspective and provided him with a deep appreciation for the challenges faced by employees, enriching his ability to lead with empathy and insight.

Building trust within the organization was another pillar of Endo’s leadership. Upon assuming his role, he prioritized open communication, respect for experienced executives, and fostering a collaborative culture. One of his innovative strategies was the use of Shuho, a weekly reporting system where employees shared updates and ideas. This not only allowed him to stay connected with the workforce but also encouraged a flow of ideas from all levels of the organization.

Endo's tenure also marked a period of significant change for the Kai Group. He expanded its international presence, increasing overseas sales from 20% to 55%. This required navigating diverse markets and cultural differences while maintaining the company’s reputation for high-quality products. Endo’s ability to adapt to changing environments and embrace new opportunities was crucial to this success.

In passing the presidency to his son, Endo highlighted the importance of respecting generational shifts. As chairman, he provides guidance while allowing his successor the freedom to shape the company’s future. For foreign leaders in Japan, Endo advises cultivating relationships outside of work, respecting local customs, and visiting worksites to understand operations firsthand. His leadership, influenced by patience and Zen-inspired mindfulness, underscores the value of humility, cultural sensitivity, and a commitment to sustainable growth.

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About The Author

Dr. Greg Story, President Dale Carnegie Tokyo Training

Contact me at [email protected]

Bestselling author of “Japan Sales Mastery” (the Japanese translation is "The Eigyo" (The営業), “Japan Business Mastery” and "Japan Presentations Mastery".? He has also written "How To Stop Wasting Money On Training" and the translation "Toreningu De Okane Wo Muda Ni Suru No Wa Yamemashoo" (トレーニングでお金を無駄にするのは止めましょう) and his brand new book is “Japan Leadership Mastery”.

Dr. Greg Story is an international keynote speaker, an executive coach, and a thought leader in the four critical areas for business people: leadership, communication, sales and presentations.?He leads the Dale Carnegie Franchise in Tokyo which traces its roots straight back to the very establishment of Dale Carnegie in Japan in 1963 by Mr. Frank Mochizuki.

He publishes daily blogs on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter

Has 6 weekly podcasts:

1.?????Mondays -??The Leadership Japan Series,

2.????Tuesdays – The Presentations Japan Series

Every second Tuesday - ビジネス達人の教え

3.????Wednesdays - The Sales Japan Series

4.????Thursdays – The Leadership Japan Series

Also every second Thursday - ビジネスプロポッドキャスト

5.????Fridays - The Japan Business Mastery Show

6.????Saturdays – Japan’s Top Business Interviews

Has 3 weekly TV shows on YouTube:

1.?????Mondays - The Cutting Edge Japan Business Show

Also every Second Thursday - ビジネスプロTV

2.????Fridays – Japan Business Mastery

3.????Saturdays – Japan Top Business Interviews

In the course of his career Dr. Greg Story has moved from the academic world, to consulting, investments, trade representation, international diplomacy, retail banking and people development.

Growing up in Brisbane, Australia he never imagined he would have a Ph.D. in Japanese decision-making, become a 39 year veteran of Japan and run his own company in Tokyo.

Since 1971, he has been a disciple of traditional Shitoryu Karate (糸東流) and is currently a 6th Dan.

Bunbu Ryodo (文武両道-both pen & sword) is his mantra and he applies martial art philosophies and strategies to business.

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