Yukari Segawa

Please tell us about your current job (responsibilities, challenges, rewards, etc.).

I am involved with research and development of solid soap at Procter & Gamble's Singapore Innovation Center. Our job includes studying what kinds of products satisfy customers while eliminating unnecessary costs and processes, investigating the best ways to move a new product from the lab development phase to actual manufacturing and then to global markets, and pursuing best practices for supplying a product that has stabilized in the market. The colleagues in my office come from 27 different countries, and we hold daily telephone and video conferences with people around the world to ensure that projects run smoothly. Seeing our lab's product hit the production line and then be shipped off for sale is truly a pleasure.

How is the knowledge and experience gained at Tokyo Tech being utilized in your current position?

I of course gained specialized knowledge at Tokyo Tech, but developing the ability to progress with research based on logical thinking has proven to be most important. It is a crucial component whether you are a researcher in academia or industry. As a student, I had the opportunity to facilitate academic forums, which polished my leadership and team management skills. Through study abroad experiences and international conferences, I also improved my English communication skills. All these have been very useful when working in a diverse team made up of many different nationalities, backgrounds, cultures, and religions.

What are your future goals?

My first and foremost goal is to get products I have developed to market. I have only been with P&G for three years, so at the moment I am often learning from others, but in the future I too want to pass on my knowledge and techniques. I also want to develop my ability to influence others, improve my leadership skills, and become able to clearly and concisely express my thoughts and data, all so that I can lead a globally diverse team.

Please write a message to students aiming for Tokyo Tech.

Tokyo Tech's world-class professors conduct cutting-edge research and make use of some of the best possible equipment and facilities. The people you meet and learn with at the Institute will be an invaluable asset for life. It is never about whether you "can or cannot," but rather about whether you "will or will not." Think carefully about what you want to learn, do, and become in the future, never fear failure, and take on any challenge that comes your way.

The content of this article was accurate at the time of the interview.

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