#Japan #Minato #Roland Berger #corporate transformation #Japan Germany

Comparative Analysis of Corporate Transformation Strategies Between Japan and Germany

Roland Berger, a leading global strategy consulting firm based in Japan, recently conducted a comparative study on corporate transformation practices between Japan and the German-speaking countries, including Germany, Austria, and Switzerland. The survey targeted 200 CxOs and corporate planning executives from listed companies in Japan, aiming to uncover distinct trends and challenges in corporate transformation efforts.

Key Findings from the Study

1. Doubts on Cost-Driven Transformation
The survey revealed that more than double the number of Japanese executives compared to their German counterparts expressed uncertainty regarding the success of cost-driven transformations. The perception hinges on the belief that Japan's approach to transformation involves addressing nearly 1.5 times the variety of themes than that of German companies.

2. Complexity in Transformation
Japanese companies are confronted with a broader spectrum of themes for corporate transformation. On average, Japanese firms identified 2.9 main themes, whereas German companies identified only 2.0. This disparity reflects the necessity for Japanese corporations to manage multiple transformation agendas concurrently, covering areas such as digitalization and AI utilization, alongside traditional cost reductions.

3. Emphasis on Human Capital
Notably, Japanese executives prioritize human-centric aspects of transformation more than their German peers. The survey results indicate that leadership capabilities and stakeholder engagement are critical factors for successful implementation of corporate transformation initiatives in Japan.

Importance of Human Factors in Transformation

According to Seichi Tamura, Senior Partner at Roland Berger, the traditional era of leveraging product and service qualities for competitiveness is over. Companies now require comprehensive overhauls of revenue models and a reevaluation of their corporate profiles. This necessitates a simultaneous approach to various transformation themes, where fostering skilled personnel capable of navigating such complexities becomes paramount.

Similarly, Shusaku Nomoto, a Principal at Roland Berger, emphasized that Japanese enterprises must continuously cultivate a culture of transformation. The need for agile responses to unexpected changes, similar to those prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, underlines the necessity for a sustained focus on human capital development.

Survey Overview

• - Survey Period: June 2025
• - Conducted By: Roland Berger
• - Method: Internet survey
• - Target Audience: CxOs and corporate planning leaders from various listed companies in Japan, aged between 20 and 70.
• - Valid Responses: 200

Conclusion

The implementation of corporate transformation is essential for ensuring that businesses are equipped to adapt to future challenges. The significant insights gained from this study offer a guiding light for organizations striving to improve their transformation initiatives. Roland Berger remains committed to supporting Japanese companies in enhancing their corporate value through various management strategies.

Contact Information for Consulting Services

For more information on transformation consulting, please reach out to the corporate transformation team at Roland Berger. We are dedicated to assisting clients in rebuilding their business and financial structures, driving profitability improvements, and leading transformative efforts across industries. You can contact us through our website or via phone at 03-4564-6660, directed to our consultant:
Seichi Tamura (Senior Partner)
With extensive experience as a former Vice President at JVC Kenwood and Executive Officer at Nidec, Tamura is adept at leading transformation initiatives within organizations.

Shusaku Nomoto (Principal)
Nomoto has a rich background leading corporate transformations and is well-regarded for his insights into the complexities of change management.

Additional Resource

Join us for our podcast, "Transformation Strategist - Real Voices from the Field," where Tamura and Nomoto discuss real-world insights and experiences related to corporate transformation. Whether you're in a large corporation or a startup, this podcast aims to provide valuable revelations that will benefit business leaders across the board.