The NYK Group is excited about its commitment to corporate transformation (CX) as part of the medium-term management plan. In 2023, we launched the CX Story to guide us toward our CX 2030 vision, which has diversity and inclusion (D&I) at its core. We aim to be a truly global company headquartered in Japan promoting global inclusion by encouraging cross-border assignments and localization of group company management.

In April 2024, we established a new Global HR Team in the Human Resources Group to redefine our goals and job descriptions. In May, we announced an open application to join the team through the Global Challenge Program (GCP), and in October two Group colleagues with HR experience were welcomed to the Tokyo-based team, marking a significant step in our D&I journey.

Irene Neo from NYK Group South Asia Pte. Ltd. (Singapore) and Regina Diaz from NYK de Mexico S.A. de C.V. (Mexico) have become the first GCP members assigned from overseas to Japan. We interviewed them about their thoughts on taking on this new challenge.

My husband was incredibly supportive, encouraging me to apply even though I had expressed my concerns. My mom was also very supportive. My dad was concerned about Japan's safety, but I assured him it was as safe as Singapore. My friends were surprised but very happy and excited for me.

My family and friends were surprised by my decision at first, but they supported me. Moving to the other side of the world was a big change and a concern due to the language barrier. However, their support and encouragement were crucial for me. They are very proud of me for having the courage to embrace this new experience.

I was incredibly excited. As the start date approached, I was busy with work handovers and personal packing, so I didn't feel anxious until the last two weeks. Then, it hit me, and I started feeling nervous but eager for the new adventure.

I felt joy, disbelief, and shock when I received the news. It took a few days to sink in. I was both happy and nervous. I immediately called my family, and my husband and I were shaking with excitement. At the office, I was so overwhelmed that I had to step out. Talking to my boss in Mexico, who already knew, was a joyful moment. I’m very grateful to him for all the support he has given me. Planning the move to Japan was also a challenging but enriching experience.

Life in Japan is excellent; the quality of life feels much better. I walk more than I did in Singapore, and the food is healthier and more delicious. At the headquarters’ 15th-floor cafeteria, I enjoy diverse, healthy options, including international cuisines.

Life in Japan has been great and represents a significant change in terms of culture and lifestyle, especially since I come from a Latin American country. I have encountered several instances of culture shock, but despite these challenges, my quality of life has improved significantly, and I feel peaceful. I aim to learn the language and fully adapt.

Before coming to Japan, I thought NYK Tokyo would have a tense and quiet working environment. However, everyone has been so approachable and friendly! The hot desking layout encourages communication and breaks the seriousness. The elements of employee engagement and health and wellness are evident too. We've had many engagement bonding activities, and we even have our own healthcare center, showing the company’s strong commitment to employee engagement, health, and wellness.

I was surprised by the large office and the different working styles. Participating in the engagement events and learning at the headquarters has been exciting. This experience is enriching, and I look forward to sharing it with my colleagues in Mexico and the Americas region.

In the Global HR Team, we focus on bridging relationships and improving communication with regional HR offices. Since January 2025, we’ve been closing gaps and building a larger HR network across the NYK Group. We have regular monthly catch-ups to share updates on our Global HR priority tasks and enable cross-sharing of best practices, aiming to foster a collaborative environment.

We work on global projects related to talent management, mobility, training and engagement aimed at all talents regardless of their location. These initiatives help us build a more integrated and effective global HR network.

I aim to deepen my HR expertise, go beyond HR operational tasks, and take on global projects with my team. I also hope to improve my Japanese language skills, even if it's just expanding my vocabulary to understand basic conversations.

I want to expand my HR knowledge beyond Mexico and learn best practices from different countries. My goal is to participate in transformational projects that impact NYK employees globally. Additionally, I aim to learn Japanese, immerse myself in the culture, and become more independent in the process.

Our Group will continue to promote diversity and inclusion (D&I) and empower diverse talent, striving to fulfill our social mission of “Bringing value to life.”

Links to related pages:
NYK Sets Forth Its Stance on D&I through “D&I Promise"
CX Story