#Japan #Tokyo #Opt #Diversity & Inclusion #Eijo Project

Introduction

Opt, a pioneering company headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, has recently announced the launch of its innovative initiative, the 'Eijo Project,' set to commence in July 2025. This project aims to provide comprehensive support to female employees in the sales domain, thereby creating an environment where everyone can confidently embrace challenges and facilitate growth.

Background of the Eijo Project

With a commitment to transforming industry through new value creation, Opt recognizes that achieving diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I) isn't merely a corporate responsibility but a strategic imperative. The company has fostered an environment respecting diverse perspectives and life stages, but still, many women face unique health challenges and career hesitancies tied to life stage transitions such as childbirth. Opt sees these issues not just as personal struggles to be addressed individually but as company-wide challenges that need attention. By creating a psychologically safe environment where all employees can pursue their careers passionately, the overall performance of the organization can be maximized.

The project specifically targets female employees in sales—a critical area for business growth that has seen a low representation of women. By establishing a model where women can thrive, the project seeks to impact not only Opt's growth but also contribute to broader DE&I efforts in society.

Key Initiatives

The 'Eijo Project' will be anchored on three main pillars that address common challenges faced by female employees:

1. Health Management Support

• - Understanding Health Challenges: Promoting awareness of female-specific health issues and establishing support systems.
• - Sanitary Product Availability: In collaboration with Kao Corporation, Opt has launched an initiative to provide sanitary products in office restrooms, aiming to enhance accessibility and comfort for women.
• - Egg Freezing Cost Assistance: To help women align their careers with their personal life goals, financial assistance for egg freezing procedures will be partially covered.
• - Preventive Healthcare Services: Leveraging services like 'Grace Care,' Opt will provide consultations and support tailored to women's health needs, including online consultations for egg freezing.

2. Career/Skill Development Support

• - Career Discussion Meetings: Hosting talks with external female professionals to share diverse career paths and industry insights, particularly aimed at employees under 30.
• - Training Sessions: Implementing various training programs, including business etiquette and mentoring skills, to equip women with practical skills relevant to their career challenges.

3. Communication Support

• - Culture of Support: Funding for team-building activities, such as lunches and dinners, will be provided to promote a culture of collaboration and support among employees, facilitating open dialogue about unique challenges related to health and career transitions.

Conclusion

With the launch of the 'Eijo Project,' Opt endeavors not only to enhance the workplace experiences for female employees but also to empower them in their careers. The initiative reflects a commitment to fostering a workplace where everyone can thrive, ensuring that challenges related to gender and health do not hinder career opportunities. By nurturing a spirit of inclusivity and collaboration, Opt aims to drive significant change both within the company and in the broader industry landscape. Through this project, Opt is taking a vital step toward realizing its purpose of creating new value and driving societal change through innovative solutions.