My first encounter with Japan was in 1993, while doing a post-graduate diploma in France. I came to study, work and live in Kyoto for a year. I loved this experience and decided to stay longer in the country. Twenty-four years later, I have spent 13 years in Japan over three separate stays.

I don’t have a specific motto, but I try to always focus on the opportunities. Many people will always tell you why things cannot be done or should not be done. Fewer people systematically try to make them possible.

I am extremely fortunate that my employer has posted me in several countries over the years (Japan, France, Ireland, the U.K. and the Benelux countries). This has given me the chance to work with and build teams in very different environments and has been an amazing experience.

Michelin has had a presence in Japan for more than 50 years. I see my responsibilities as preparing the company and our teams for the next 50 years, as a leading provider of mobility products and services, in a rapidly changing market.

My advice to any newcomer willing to stay a few years in Japan would be to study the culture to understand the history, the context and the background, study the language to better communicate, yet don’t lose sight of your own background. Always be curious, constructively challenge the status quo and, above all, enjoy all the experience.