#Japan #Shibuya #NEXT ONE #Meguru Farm #Tohru Saito

Resilience in Leadership: An Insight into NEXT ONE and CEO Tohru Saito

The recent publication of an interview with Tohru Saito, the CEO of NEXT ONE, in the media platform TopVoice sheds light on this innovative company's journey and its vision for the future. Founded at the young age of 24, Saito has led NEXT ONE through significant trials, including an alarming 850 million yen operating loss due to market fluctuations in 2021. This article outlines how he navigated through difficult times while reinforcing his commitment to societal well-being through business ventures such as Meguru Farm, a smart agricultural initiative that supports the employment of people with disabilities.

Background of NEXT ONE

Established in Shibuya, Tokyo, NEXT ONE has evolved from a telecommunications provider to a key player in consumer platform services that cover essential infrastructure needs. The company initially diversified into water supply services, later venturing into the electricity retail market with the brand 'Shin Nihon Energy'. This expansive growth reflects NEXT ONE's ambition to play a pivotal role in everyday consumers' lives by delivering continuous and reliable services.

Saito’s journey from a fledgling entrepreneur to CEO symbolizes the tenacity embedded within the company's ethos. He highlights the importance of building a resilient business model that adapts to external crises while remaining committed to internal values, particularly those surrounding employment and societal contributions.

Navigating the 2021 Crisis

The electricity market crisis of 2021 marked a critical turning point for NEXT ONE. Scenarios in which the company heavily relied on the Japanese Electricity Wholesale Market (JEPX) suddenly turned perilous as prices skyrocketed, resulting in substantial losses. However, Saito viewed this adversity as both a challenge and an opportunity to reflect and recalibrate the company's strategies.

To navigate the turbulence, NEXT ONE undertook comprehensive reviews of its electricity procurement systems and risk management practices. This included switching to alternative procurement strategies such as bilateral contracts to mitigate supply risks.

The key to recovery, according to Saito, was not only the strategic adjustments made at the executive level but also fostering a participative culture where employees were empowered to take ownership and propose solutions. This crisis deepened Saito's understanding of leadership, emphasizing trust within the organization and the importance of working collectively towards a shared goal.

Meguru Farm: A New Frontier for Disabled Employment

In line with his philosophy of trust and social responsibility, Saito launched the 'Meguru Farm' initiative, a smart agricultural project aimed at providing employment support for individuals with disabilities. This unique program creates a nurturing work environment while addressing the challenges businesses face in hiring disabled workers. 'Meguru Farm' not only cultivates crops but also cultivates a sense of purpose among its employees, allowing them to experience the significance of work first-hand.

Through tailored programs, Meguru Farm enables individuals with disabilities to progress from single tasks to more complex roles. This gradual approach ensures they develop the necessary skills while enjoying a supportive work environment designed to accommodate their unique needs. The produce grown at the farm is also distributed, allowing employees to tangibly see their contributions to society, affirming their roles and responsibilities.

A Vision for the Future

Reflecting on both his challenges and successes, Tohru Saito’s vision for NEXT ONE is about continuing to provide essential services for everyday life while simultaneously advocating for the rights and opportunities of disabled individuals. He emphasizes the importance of balancing economic sustainability with social responsibility, aiming to make a positive impact on society.

Saito's remarks encapsulate a robust commitment: ‘The management crisis of 2021 profoundly changed my understanding of leadership. This company is not solely mine; it is supported by employees, customers, financial institutions, and partners.’ He aspires for NEXT ONE to be a beacon of hope, striving to align societal needs with business opportunities.

In conclusion, the future looks promising for NEXT ONE as it strengthens its core business while exploring new avenues for social engagement. The lessons learned from past adversities will undoubtedly fuel its commitment to societal contribution, proving that resilience and purpose can coexist harmoniously in the realm of business.