#Japan #Shibuya #Poppins Group #New Employees #Onboarding Ceremony

Poppins Group Celebrates New Beginnings

On April 6, 2025, the Poppins Group, led by CEO Maiko Todoroki, held its onboarding ceremony for the new employees, welcoming a total of 217 newcomers, including 101 graduates and 116 mid-career hires. The event marked a significant moment for both the company and the new recruits, as they embark on their respective journeys in supporting working women and children.

A Message from the CEO

During the ceremony, CEO Maiko Todoroki addressed the new employees, reaffirming the company’s long-standing mission: "Supporting working women." She emphasized the responsibilities that accompany the care of children, highlighting the importance of the work that the new hires are about to undertake. Furthermore, she expressed her gratitude for their choice to join the Poppins family and shared her aspirations for the company’s transition from a single leadership structure to a three-CEO model, representing a new era in its operations.

Inspirational Messages for New Staff

Every year, Poppins invites prominent figures in child development and education to share their messages with the newest members of the team. This year, Ayako Komaki, CEO of Sanrio Entertainment, provided an encouraging speech centered around the theme of "Three Perspectives." She urged the new recruits to possess a watchful eye over the children in their care, empathy towards their colleagues, and self-compassion as they navigate their professional paths. This heartfelt advice resonated deeply with the new employees as they prepared to contribute positively to the Poppins community.

Notably, Japanese fencing representative Niki Kanou, who also serves as a JAL athlete, shared his own video message, emphasizing the importance of pursuing one's passions and fostering teamwork. He offered his support and well-wishes to the new hires as they dive into the rewarding profession of childcare.

Warm Welcome and Unique Gifts

The onboarding ceremony was not only a platform for inspiring speeches but also an opportunity for heartfelt welcomes. Each new employee received a pink rose from their respective center directors, symbolizing the beginning of their journey with Poppins and the shared commitment to creating a nurturing environment. As they represented their hope and enthusiasm for contributing to the organization, the warmth of this gesture highlighted the supportive culture within Poppins.

Since April 1, many of the new employees have already begun their roles at various centers, under the guidance of dedicated facility leaders. The presence of 157 center directors at the ceremony demonstrated the collective spirit of support as the organization embraces its fresh talent, fostering an environment where employees can grow animatedly and reach their full potential.

The Poppins Group's Commitment to Excellence

Since its founding in 1987, the Poppins Group has made it its mission to support working women through high-quality education and care services. With offerings like nanny services, nursery schools, and customized eldercare, the company aims to meet the diverse needs of modern women, enabling them to balance their professional and personal lives effectively.

Advancing SDGs at Poppins

In 2020, Poppins proudly became Japan’s first SDGs-IPO company, listing on the Tokyo Stock Exchange and continuing its commitment to social contribution through its services. The group focuses on three key Sustainable Development Goals: ensuring quality education for all, promoting gender equality, and fostering decent work conditions and economic growth. Its practical approach includes educational initiatives in nurseries and after-school programs, alongside ongoing academic research in collaboration with Harvard University’s Project Zero to explore how to inspire children's interest in SDGs.

Conclusion

As Poppins embraces a new chapter with the induction of its 217 new employees, it stands firm in its mission, ensuring a dedication to excellence and community support that will drive the company’s success in the years to come. With a focus on quality care and social responsibility, Poppins is well-equipped to lead the way in nurturing both its employees and the families they serve.