Saying “ありがとう,お疲れ様” (thank you and farewell) to Tsuyoshi Notani

It is with a heavy heart that we say “ありがとう、お疲れ様” (thank you and farewell) to our Managing Director, Tsuyoshi Notani, as he returns to JCB in Japan after 6 years leading the European business.

Tsuyoshi has spent almost twenty years with JCB globally and is an open-minded and much-admired leader.

In this blog, we invite audiences to get to know more about the man behind the “managing director” as we wish him all the best for the future ahead of him.

Q1. Notani-San, can you tell us a little bit about your first role in international business at JCB?

My first role at JCB was Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Asia Pacific. Appointed in 2004, my core responsibilities revolved around devising strategies that expanded JCB’s reach in Asia Pacific. I was in this role for two years, and I particularly enjoyed the time that I spent working from JCB's Tokyo headquarters - the place where I found my feet in the world of work.

Q2. And then you relocated with JCB to Thailand?

Yes. Exploring new places has always been a favourite pastime of mine – so, I was thrilled to be offered the role of Managing Director of JCB International (Thailand) in 2006. The prospect of relocating to Bangkok intrigued me, as I would be able to sample a new foreign culture, whilst also delving deeper into JCB’s operations. Over the course of four and half years, I was tasked with capitalising the growing markets of Thailand, Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia.?

Q3. And in 2010, what other change happened with your JCB career?

In 2010 I became Senior Vice President, Brand Marketing and Business Strategy, back at the Tokyo Headquarters - giving me the opportunity to give back to the company that had demonstrated its faith in me. I held this position for 5 and half years, and my responsibilities were split across two core pillars:

1. Head of Brand Marketing: I was tasked with enhancing our reputation as well as promoting our services.
2. Head of Business Strategy: My duties shifted to designing global business strategy and forging alliances with partners across the globe.

I really enjoyed my time being back in Japan after being away for several years, but when the opportunity to travel came again, I was happy to embrace it!

Q4. So, that’s when you moved to London to become the Managing Director for JCB International (Europe) Ltd.?

Yes, in 2016, I moved to London. A life changing moment, not just for me but for the rest of my family, as we relocated together. Developing partnerships with like-minded organisations has been my focus in this role. I like helping merchants and acquirers across Europe tap into JCB’s Cardmember spend, whilst expanding JCB acceptance for the convenience of the Cardmember.

Q5. What makes you passionate about JCB?

From a commercial standpoint, I am proud to have spearheaded JCB’s ecommerce efforts in Europe - with digital Cardmember sales in Europe, growing by 300 % between 2016 and 2019. As someone that believes in giving back to future generations, I find the success of my fellow team members and our partners immensely gratifying.

JCB is unwavering in its commitment to its partners. The Japanese principle of Omotenashi - a Japanese concept that conveys the utmost importance of a host caring for guests - is something that we abide by with pride. This drives JCB’s actions daily, and it is this dedication that makes me thrilled to be a part of this organisation.

Q6. Outside of JCB, what are you going to miss most about London?

Away from work, a day isn’t complete until I have spent quality time with my family. They make sure that I don’t lose sight of what is truly important. The move to London has been fantastic for us, not least because of the abundance of parks that the city has to offer. Taking a stroll through nature - with my dog and family by my side - gives me a much-needed chance to clear my head. I’ll really miss that about London.

Q7. Finally, Notani-San, can you tell who is going to be taking over your role in Europe?

Yes, my colleague, Ray (Ryuji) Shinzawa, previously the President at JCB International Credit Card Co., Ltd. U.S., is my successor. He has led the team in the US for over 5 years and has had an impressive career at JCB spanning almost 30 years. I know that he will achieve great things in Europe, and the European team are excited to support him in every way possible.

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