#Japan #education innovation #Minato #VUCA Leadership #Growth Manager

Introduction

The rapidly changing business landscape and high employee turnover have intensified the need for advanced skills and capabilities among managers. The July 2025 issue of Monthly Advanced Education delves into effective strategies for managerial development that can drive organizational growth, particularly in the context of the VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) era.

Fostering Growth Managers

According to Yu Iwatsuki, head of the Human Resources Development Department at SoftBank Corp, today's diverse workforce necessitates a new archetype of the manager known as the 'Growth Manager'. This role involves continuous learning and accompanying subordinates on their growth journey. Iwatsuki emphasizes that understanding the varying values and aspirations of employees is crucial for effective leadership. By focusing on career support and mentorship, managers can enhance their teams' engagement and development.

Interaction and Relationship Building

Takahiro Yonei, a chief researcher at the Management Research Center of the Industrial Management University, highlights the significance of relationship-building skills in managerial roles. He notes that establishing rapport through genuine interactions is more valuable than technical know-how in conducting one-on-ones. Managers must foster an environment where subordinates feel comfortable and confident in their discussions. This intrinsic relationship strength is becoming a pivotal component of successful management.

Economic Approaches to Management

Masaki Masaki, a lecturer at the University of Tokyo’s Graduate School of Economics, presents various economic methods that managers should adopt. By leveraging different thinking frameworks, managers can better navigate complexity and uncertainty while making informed decisions. He accentuates the need for analytical skills to understand market dynamics and drive effective strategies.

Gratitude in Leadership

In complex managerial environments, gratitude can serve as a potent tool for enhancing team morale. Ikutaro Masaki, an associate professor at Tokyo Women's University, advocates integrating appreciation into management practices. By recognizing individual contributions, managers can create a positive feedback loop that fosters collaboration and teamwork.

Promoting Female Leadership

The importance of developing female leaders is also underlined in this issue. Momoko Miyamoto, COO of Mentor For, discusses the role of executives in fostering an inclusive culture that encourages the growth of female talent. She suggests that organizations should implement policies and mentorship programs aimed at supporting women in leadership roles. This initiative is essential for creating a diverse leadership landscape that can meet today's dynamic challenges.

Global Learning and Citizenship

In the second feature, the magazine transitions to the theme of global learning in a rapidly evolving society. With the Japanese government allocating significant funding towards fostering global talent, the issue discusses essential competencies that future generations need to navigate the complexities of a globalized world.

Experts like Shunta Igarashi from With The World emphasize the importance of international exchange programs and practical learning experiences. They argue that these initiatives can empower students to develop world-class communication skills and global awareness, essential for effective participation in international settings.

Fukui Prefecture’s Educational Initiatives

Fukui Prefecture emerges as an exemplary case of innovation in education. The area's educational administration prioritizes a child-centered approach, contributing to high academic performance and well-being metrics. Initiatives by Fukui University are focused on enhancing community well-being through impactful education research. Various private enterprises are equally committed to raising happiness and self-esteem among youth, marking a comprehensive approach to educational development.

• - Nobukazu Fujimaru, Education Director of Fukui Prefectural Board of Education, shares insights into the recent "National High School Student Presentation Tournament" where practical, impactful learning was implemented.
• - Hironobu Uchiki, President of Fukui University, discusses ongoing collaborations with healthcare institutions to produce well-rounded healthcare professionals equipped with practical skills.

Conclusion

The July 2025 issue of Monthly Advanced Education underscores a vital message: As the managerial landscape evolves in response to global changes, the education sector must adapt accordingly. By investing in managerial development strategies and fostering inclusive environments, organizations can effectively prepare leaders for the complexities of the future. The insights offered in this publication will guide individuals and institutions committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders who are equipped to thrive in a VUCA world.