#Japan #Tokyo #Nippon Steel #Work-Life Balance #NST

Introduction

Nippon Steel Trading Corporation, a leading manufacturer in the field of system architecture, has announced a significant transition towards a more supportive workplace environment. Starting April 2025, the company will fully implement a two-day weekend system, aiming to create conditions where employees can build diverse career paths and life plans.

Transition to a Complete Two-Day Weekend System

In response to the growing needs of its workforce, Nippon Steel will increase the annual holiday count significantly compared to the previous 118 days designated for 2024. The company assures employees that despite the reduced total working hours, salary levels will remain the same, representing an effective salary increase for all staff members.

Establishment of Parenting Support System

Recognizing the challenge of balancing work with parenting, Nippon Steel encourages both male and female employees to take parental leave. The company will reassess its evaluation system to ensure that taking parental leave does not hinder career progression. Moreover, by introducing a telework program, it aims to further facilitate the compatibility of work and child-rearing. Reports indicate that the rate of parental leave taken by male employees exceeded 50% in the fiscal year of 2024, marking an upward trend. However, the company acknowledges that some employees still hesitate to take advantage of this program, an issue it actively seeks to address by fostering a more supportive atmosphere and enhancing communication regarding these policies.

Introduction of a Caregiver Support System

Nippon Steel has also unveiled a new caregiver support system aimed at assisting employees who wish to balance work with caregiving responsibilities. This initiative aims to clarify the company's commitment to support caregivers, ensuring they do not have to sacrifice their jobs or career aspirations. The establishment of a dedicated consultation window for caregiving-related issues and regular feedback from users of the system will help create a robust support network for affected employees.

Launch of Qualification Preparation Leave

To support employee skill enhancement and career development, Nippon Steel has introduced a qualification incentive program, where the company covers part of the exam fees related to professional qualifications. The newly established qualification preparation leave provision offers special paid leave to employees who utilize this program, allowing them to prepare for exams without added stress. This comprehensive support structure aims to bolster both individual growth and the organization's expertise.

In the fiscal year 2024, young employees showed significant enthusiasm by applying for six different qualifications, with 17 candidates taking the exams and 10 successfully passing. Looking ahead, the company plans to broaden the range of eligible qualifications and enhance support measures to foster an environment where more employees feel empowered to challenge themselves, ultimately enhancing the collective competence and competitiveness of the organization.

Message from the President

Nippon Steel Trading Corporation's CEO, Tomo Uno, emphasizes the company's commitment to fostering enriching careers and a sustainable workplace for all employees. With the introduction of new policies related to work-life balance, childcare, caregiving support, and qualification assistance, the company aims to accommodate the diverse needs and lifestyles of its employees. These initiatives will only be meaningful if they are actively utilized to empower the workforce.

Going forward, the company promises to maintain an ongoing dialogue about the efficacy of these systems, continuously improving them while genuinely listening to employee feedback to create a more flexible and growth-oriented workplace.

About Nippon Steel Trading Corporation

Nippon Steel Trading Corporation has an impressive track record of over 200 utilized projects annually, establishing itself among the top manufacturers of system architecture in Japan. With more than fifty years of experience stemming from its predecessor, Sumitomo Metal Industries, the company has consistently delivered high-quality system construction products. By leveraging the prefabrication of components, it has achieved significant reductions in costs and construction timelines.

As part of the Nippon Steel group, the company capitalizes on stable procurement of high-quality steel materials, with a diverse product lineup capable of handling two-story buildings and proprietary foundational systems that enhance construction pacing. In addressing the challenges faced by the construction industry, such as labor shortages, aging workforces, overwork, and rising material costs, Nippon Steel is dedicated to finding viable solutions.