We are working to create an Environment where people with diverse talents can thrive by drawing on their individual strengths. As part of this effort, we held a Women’s Career Session for Female employees in August 2026 in a hybrid format, with participants attending in person and online. Approximately 40 employees took part.

The session was designed to introduce Female employees to a range of career paths and give them an opportunity to reflect on their own careers and future possibilities. This time, the speakers were Hiroko Kamo and Nao Shigenari, both of whom became Executive Officers in Fiscal year 2026. By hearing about the experiences and choices that shaped their careers, and what they had valued along the way, participants gained insights to help them think about their own paths.

The two speakers shared their experiences and values across three main Themes: “Principles for Making Decisions at Work,” “The Realities of Being Managers and Executives,” and “Basic Approach to Careers.” They also addressed questions submitted in advance by participants, discussing a wide range of topics related to day-to-day work and careers, including balancing work and personal life and developing skills.

What They Have Valued Throughout Their Careers

Speaking about the Basic Approach she values at work, Kamo said she does not simply take an Issue or instruction presented to her at face value. Instead, she considers the context and seeks to understand even the underlying needs that the other person may not yet recognize, so that she can deliver results beyond expectations. Shigenari emphasized building relationships that are meaningful for both parties. She said that engaging with others sincerely, person to person, fosters trust and creates relationships in which people can speak openly and seek each other’s advice.

Both speakers recalled feeling uncertain before becoming Managers or executives. Having taken on those roles, however, they have found it rewarding to contribute to creating greater value while looking across the organization as a whole. They also spoke about the importance of drawing on each team member’s strengths to achieve results as an organization.

Turning Opportunities into New Possibilities

Reflecting on a turning point in her career, Kamo said that being entrusted with work she had never done before opened up new possibilities for her. She encouraged participants to try opportunities suggested by those around them. Shigenari recalled that receiving tough feedback also became a turning point that shaped how she approached her work. She also described choosing the way she wanted to work when she returned from childcare leave, underscoring the importance of moving forward without limiting one’s own possibilities. Drawing on their experiences, both speakers conveyed that a career is not simply a predetermined path. It takes shape through everyday decisions, varied experiences, and interactions with others.

Balancing Work and Personal Life, and Advice for Younger Employees

Asked in advance by participants how they balance work and personal life, the speakers said it is important to seek support from family and others and to find ways to switch gears and recharge that work for them. They also discussed what they were glad they had focused on early in their careers, as well as the skills and experiences worth developing today. Their advice to younger employees was to “develop a deep understanding of the work you are responsible for” and “when an opportunity comes your way, give it a try without worrying too much about what lies ahead.” 

An Opportunity to Reflect on a Career That Is Right for You

Participants shared comments such as, “Hearing about the challenges they faced in their careers and the principles they value—things we rarely have a chance to hear about—was extremely helpful as I think about my future work and career,” and “Learning about the experiences and Basic Approach that led the Female executives to where they are today motivated me to think about my own future career.”

The session gave participants an opportunity to encounter diverse career paths and perspectives and to reflect anew on how they want to work and develop their careers.

We will continue to create an Environment where people with diverse talents can thrive by making the most of their individuality and strengths while expanding their own possibilities.