My first encounter with Japan was most likely playing computer games like “Super Mario” and “Pac-Man,” although I probably didn’t know they were Japanese at the time. An early standout regarding the unique thought process in Japan was hearing about Japanese management philosophy during my university studies in Ireland. There, I learned concepts such as just-in-time manufacturing, vertical integration of supply and kaizen (continuous improvement) to name but a few.

Treat others the way you would expect to be treated yourself. Your life is an accumulation of experiences and relationships, be open and respectful to everyone you encounter, they are all part of your story. Another motto I like is to be curious. Don’t accept or follow the status quo, be inquisitive and try new things even if others are not.

I have really enjoyed working in different countries and getting to understand various cultures and perspectives on life. I have worked in Ireland and England in Europe, Zambia and Rwanda in Africa, Melbourne and Sydney in Australia and my current role in Japan. Although I am based in Tokyo, my job involves a lot of global travel and interaction with our different international offices. Despite the cultural differences, I see many similarities in people globally.

I plan to continue progressing my career while creating new relationships to help support the growth of Pembroke and the Ireland Japan Chamber of Commerce. I’m also a keen cyclist and triathlete, so I am enjoying exploring some of the world-class cycling and events here in Japan. As a relatively new father, I am enjoying the experience of raising a family in arguably the safest city on the planet.

Someone told me soon after I arrived in Japan that in order to be successful here you need the “three ps” — patience, perseverance and politeness. After spending some time here I see these three disciplines as being key to so much in Japan. We possess these abilities in the West, but as with many other things, they are taken to the next level in Japan.