新明和グループでは、長期経営計画[SG-Vision 2030]において掲げる基本方針の一つとして、海外事業のさらなる拡大を推進しています。その中心となるのが、グローバル市場で活躍する営業部門や海外現地法人のメンバーたちです。

Our expatriate employees working overseas share their experiences about navigating different cultures, adapting to diverse work styles and values, and the challenges and career paths they have encountered in their local assignments.

Azusa Watanabe

Joined ShinMaywa in April 2020
Assigned to the Special Purpose Truck Division, Overseas Strategy Department, International Strategies Section. 
April 2025 (current position)
In her sixth year with the company, she was seconded to Thai ShinMaywa Co., Ltd., Special Purpose Truck Unit, Marketing & Sales Department.
She currently serves as an Assistant Manager.

Ever since my job-hunting days, I had always hoped that one day I could work abroad as an expatriate. I knew that the department I was assigned to might offer such opportunities in the future, but the chance came sooner than I had expected. Although it was a bit lonely to relocate alone right after getting married, my desire to experience life overseas was even stronger. I felt that this was a great opportunity and that now was the time I could truly challenge myself—so I decided to take on the expatriate assignment.

Although I am the first female expatriate in our company, I had already worked with many female managers through our business with companies in Southeast Asia when I was still based in Japan. I was also fortunate to work under supervisors and senior colleagues who were open-minded and free from fixed ideas, thanks to which I rarely felt any special awareness about being “the first female expatriate.” In my current team, many members are close to my age, and despite being from different countries, I often feel that we share similar values and ways of thinking. Communication flows smoothly, and I find the working environment extremely comfortable and supportive.

I currently handle a wide range of responsibilities, mainly focusing on sales operations, while also supporting the team in a role equivalent to an assistant manager. My work includes participating in meetings, coordinating within the department, and additionally taking on translation and interpretation tasks.
Even when I was in Japan, I was involved in exporting parts as a member of the international sales team, so my fundamental responsibilities as a salesperson have not changed much in Thailand, despite differences in products and country‑specific processes. However, due to the differences in sales procedures here, I have been able to gain a deeper understanding of cost and pricing strategies, as well as the sense of profitability required of sales personnel in manufacturing companies. I feel that this has greatly contributed to my personal growth.
When I was assigned management responsibilities as a bridge between my supervisor and the team—despite this being my first expatriate assignment in my sixth year at the company—I honestly felt uncertain at first. However, as I worked through each day with the support and advice of my supervisor and predecessor, I came to realize that understanding different approaches to work is key to smooth communication.

Adjusting to different work styles has been tough, but taking on management responsibilities has significantly increased my sense of accountability. In Japan, I focused on doing my own tasks. Now, I think about how our entire sales team should operate and collaborate with managers on strategy. I also find it rewarding to consider how to motivate the team and lead effectively. My Thai managers have taught me the importance of trusting team members and respecting different work styles. I take pride in my role as an assistant manager and look forward to continuing to learn and take on new challenges.

I feel that Thai culture and people’s personalities suit me well. People in Thailand are kind and caring. Many don’t well too much on small mistakes or failures, and when problems arise, the attitude is, “What’s done is done—let’s figure out what to do next together.” There’s also a common practice of enjoying snacks while working, which I personally love. In fact, this aspect helped me blend in and enjoy the local environment within just a few months.
For everyday communication, I mainly use English since it’s widely understood by the sales team and in Bangkok where I live. However, I’d like to improve my Thai so I can connect more deeply with local colleagues and people in the community, including at work.

Personally, I used to think that an overseas assignment was a big hurdle—something where you work hard alone. But after actually coming to Thailand, I realized that not only other expatriates but also local colleagues are incredibly supportive. I’ve truly been helped by so many people. In my case, I was assigned earlier than I had expected in my life plan, but having the chance at this age to work abroad has been an invaluable learning experience. Even if you make mistakes, there are plenty of opportunities to recover, and I believe being “young” is an advantage. So I want to use this opportunity to take on as many challenges as I can.