HR Leadership Insights
2026-07-09 04:44:43

Exploring Future HR Strategies with Japan Tobacco Industry Leaders in July Broadcast

A New Chapter in HR Leadership



In July, the popular radio show ‘HR Leaders' Compass’ presented by Radio NIKKEI and OtoBank will feature key executives Yuichi Niishima and Miho Sasaki from Japan Tobacco Industry (JT). This month’s discussions will delve into critical HR strategies and organizational transformations. As experts in the field, they will share insights into how to nurture and select the next generation of leaders using their unique programs.

The show is designed for HR leaders and professionals to deepen their understanding of the evolving landscape in human resources. Niishima and Sasaki are pivotal in overseeing the JT-Next Leaders Program (NLP), a comprehensive initiative aimed at identifying and cultivating future leaders within the organization. They will enlighten listeners about JT's core values of “self-reliance and autonomy” that shape their corporate culture, and how NLP plays a significant role in their strategic HR vision.

The discussions will tackle the complexities of nurturing talent amidst a backdrop of increasingly complicated business structures and globalization. It will highlight JT's evolving NLP framework, which allows employees to take initiative without needing endorsements from their supervisors, enhancing intrinsic motivation.

The JT-Next Leaders Program Unpacked



The JT-Next Leaders Program, active for over a decade now, is a rigorous selection and development framework that paves the way for promising talents. By employing a challenge-based approach where no prior endorsements are necessary, the program focuses on personal motivation and growth. This month’s broadcast will outline the stringent selection criteria, which sometimes even results in zero certification in a given year, a testament to the high standards maintained by JT.

In an atmosphere that encourages personal and professional growth, the show will also explore the ‘Tough Assignments’ element of NLP. These are designed to push candidates beyond their comfort zones, ensuring that they gain valuable experiences and learnings. Listeners will obtain practical tips on how JT integrates individual development with organizational goals, allowing for personalized growth opportunities.

The first episode airs on July 10th, and can be accessed through radiko, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

Guest Profiles



Yuichi Niishima


Niishima serves as Assistant Manager in the HR Department at Japan Tobacco. He joined the company in 2010, initially gaining experience in sales before transitioning to recruitment and HR operations. He currently focuses on talent management and is instrumental in the NLP's execution.

Miho Sasaki


Sasaki joined Japan Tobacco in 2017, having worked in sales and marketing roles prior to her move to the HR Department. She oversees various leadership development initiatives, including NLP and programs focused on cultivating executive talent.

Program Details


  • - Show Title: HR Leaders' Compass
  • - Broadcast Schedule: Every Friday from 7:40 to 7:55 AM (Rebroadcast on Mondays at the same time)
  • - Media Platforms: Radio NIKKEI, radiko, Podcasts, audiobook.jp
  • - Produced by: Radio NIKKEI, OtoBank in collaboration with Japan's HR Department
  • - Host: Wataru Ueda, Founder of OtoBank
  • - Program Website: HR Leaders' Compass

July Broadcast Dates


  • - Week 1: July 10, 2023
  • - Week 2: July 17, 2023
  • - Week 3: July 24, 2023
  • - Week 4: July 31, 2023

For inquiries, contact:
Public Relations, OtoBank: [email protected]
More contact details can be found here.

Audiobook.jp Corporate Edition


Audiobook.jp Corporate version provides unlimited access to over 15,000 titles, mainly focusing on business and personal development books. It encourages self-directed learning by making it easier to listen and learn during commuting or in spare moments. It serves as an innovative employee benefit, enhancing both education and enjoyment.

Company Overview


OtoBank, established in 2004, operates Audiobook.jp, one of Japan's largest audiobook platforms. The company's mission is to create a culture of listening and learning. With a vision to promote barrier-free reading experiences, OtoBank is committed to improving human resource strategies and delivering engaging audio content to a wider audience. For more information, visit OtoBank website.


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