Dai Inagaki, Executive Officer & General Manager of Quality Assurance Division

“At Musashi, I had a sense that I would have meaningful work and could find my place.”

Musashi Paint Holdings Co., Ltd. is seeking motivated individuals to join our team.

Executive Officer – Quality Assurance Division, General Manager – Dai Inagaki

Self-Introduction

I joined Musashi Paint in December 1998 as a mid-career hire, and it has now been 25 years. Prior to joining, I worked as a site supervisor in mechanical equipment, a completely different industry.

Since joining Musashi, I have gained extensive experience across multiple departments and roles: after initial training in the Production Department’s Color Matching Section, I worked in the Technology Department, Production Engineering Section, and Production Section (concurrently with Production Engineering), was assigned to Musashi Vietnam (overseeing design and construction of factories in Vietnam, Thailand, India, and Nakayama No.2 in Japan), returned to work at the Iruma Factory Production Department, the Quality Assurance Department, Musashi Paint Holdings (HD) Quality Assurance Division, and concurrently served as HD QA + Production Department Director of Iruma Factory, and finally as HD QA + Director in charge of HR and General Affairs at Iruma Factory. I have probably experienced more internal transfers than anyone else in the company. Before my assignment to Vietnam, I also participated in factory launches in Korea and Hungary, and upon returning from Vietnam, I was involved in launching the Hanoi factory from late 2020 to April 2021.

What kind of work do you do at Musashi Paint?

At the HD Quality Assurance Division, I hold regular monthly meetings with overseas offices, providing guidance and advice on problem-solving. I assign tasks, review outcomes, and share results to collectively raise the capabilities of our group. In Japan, my work in HR and General Affairs includes revising work regulations and devising recruitment strategies. Recruitment activities are a major social experiment: this year, we will test how different words, images, and videos on our app resonate with high school students, learning from the reactions to improve future efforts.　

Why did you choose Musashi Paint?

During a factory visit before joining, I noticed many unused or redundant pieces of equipment. At the time, I was also considering offers from two other companies, but I had a strong instinct that Musashi would give me meaningful work and a place where I could belong. That intuition led me to join.

What do you find attractive about Musashi Paint?

The relationships between employees. Musashi has no factions or barriers, and even directors can approach colleagues casually, addressing them by name without hierarchy. This open and approachable culture is a major appeal of the company.

When do you feel the most fulfilled in your work?

I feel a strong sense of achievement when a problem is resolved after successfully identifying the root cause or when something previously unclear becomes fully understood.

This sense of fulfillment extends beyond quality assurance work. For example, in HR, after the COVID-19 restrictions lifted last year, we approached several times the usual number of high schools for recruitment but initially received no response. The HR team analyzed the situation, identified the main causes, and is now beginning a verification process. Successfully addressing these challenges will provide a strong sense of accomplishment. I feel most motivated when I witness growth in employees and the company through trial, error, and problem-solving.

What do you look for in your work?

Whether in quality assurance or other roles, I value the pursuit of truth and the ability to approach problems with an open mind rather than making assumptions. I sometimes fall into the trap of jumping to conclusions, and I strive to improve every day.

What kind of colleagues do you want to work with?

People who balance speed and planning. Overseas colleagues often act quickly, which can lead to mistakes but allows for quick recovery. Japanese colleagues tend to act cautiously to avoid risk, but those who move quickly usually do so after careful consideration. I look for people who maintain this balance.

Message to Readers

Twenty years ago, senior managers helped shape me as a professional. While I may now appear calm and composed, back then I was constantly challenging issues and taking initiative to solve problems. Even as a young, somewhat rebellious employee, my ideas were heard by senior managers. I believe the current generation of managers, both in Japan and overseas, have had similar experiences. Now, in my position, it is my turn to respond to others. If you have the desire to accomplish something, speak up—but be prepared to take full responsibility for your actions.

Comments from Colleagues

What kind of person is Mr. Inagaki?

• Mr. Inagaki is like a schoolteacher: serious, humorous, warm to others, and strict with himself. He commands respect and trust. Even after being assigned to different departments over the years, our paths have often crossed, reflecting a strong professional bond.

• He is approachable, empathetic, and provides precise support for any problems or challenges.

What do we respect about Mr. Inagaki?

• He treats everyone equally, participates in any conversation topic, and possesses remarkable knowledge across many areas.

• His dedication to doing what is right for the company, updating his knowledge, and promptly implementing solutions is inspiring.

Message to Mr. Inagaki

• Thank you for your guidance and support since my entry into Musashi. Your thoughtful words have empowered many colleagues, including myself.

• Despite your busy responsibilities, you continue to lead and support the team, encouraging us to take on challenges. We look forward to your continued leadership and youthful energy.