Delivering passion through
the power of tea proposals.

General Manager, Raw Materials Division Joined in 2005: DOKAI Kouji

A Diverse Sales Field,
from Zennoh/JA to Beverage Ingredients

I belong to the First Sales Department, where I handle proposal-based sales of new teas, premium teas, and gift products to Zennoh and JA, as well as tea raw materials to major beverage manufacturers. My work spans two main areas: expanding traditional tea sales channels and developing beverage ingredients that meet modern demands. While both revolve around “tea,” the skills and approaches required for each are completely different, making every day stimulating.

The Satisfaction and Trust When Proposals Hit the Mark

There is an incomparable sense of achievement when my ideas and proposals resonate during negotiations with JA, or when a major beverage manufacturer adopts our tea raw materials for a new product. In sales, I place the highest importance on human relationships. While the company’s brand matters, ultimately it comes down to whether clients trust you as an individual. The joy of seeing your intentions understood is unforgettable, no matter how many times you experience it.

Failures as a Source of Growth

Throughout my career, I have experienced many failures. However, these setbacks have been my greatest teachers, shaping who I am today. In the beginning, I would get nervous when facing representatives of large companies, but now I can conduct meetings naturally. Yet, I never settle. I continuously strive to deepen my knowledge and become a salesperson who can convey the value of tea even more effectively.

A Corporate Culture that Welcomes Challenges

I believe Harada Tea is a company that encourages employees to take on new challenges. If you have ideas or proposals, you can pursue them regardless of your tenure or position. For those who enjoy taking initiative, it’s the perfect workplace. The close relationships with supervisors and colleagues, along with an open and transparent environment, allow me to focus fully on my work.

Roots in the “Home of Tea”

I grew up in the birthplace of Honmacha. Although my family were not farmers, tea was always a familiar part of my life. Studying agriculture at university strengthened my desire to contribute to Japanese agriculture, which naturally led me to pursue a career at Harada Tea Today, while working in sales, my commitment to the future of Japanese agriculture and tea culture remains unchanged.

Passion and Effort Built My Foundation

In high school, I was a member of the baseball team, spending my days running tirelessly. Looking back, those three years taught me that I can overcome difficulties. In university, I devoted myself to music. Although the fields were different, these experiences of wholehearted effort have translated into perseverance and flexible thinking in my current work.

Bringing Sencha to the World Again

Moving forward, I aim to once again share the deliciousness of sencha across Japan and the world. While sencha is deeply rooted in Japanese culture, its appeal is not always accurately conveyed. As a representative of Harada Tea and as a salesperson, I want to deliver truly excellent tea to more people. To achieve this, I recognize the need for continuous personal effort and growth.

Encounters Shape Life

I believe life is all about encounters. The people you meet, the timing, and the conversations you have can dramatically change your path. That’s why it’s important to value every moment, enjoying work, play, and hobbies to the fullest. I believe those who walk forward with ambition and passion can create their own future. We warmly welcome such colleagues to join us.