From planning to PR,
sharing the spirit of tea
through communication.
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Section Manager, Product Department
Joined in 2018 - TAKASAKI Tomomi
A Multifaceted Role Handling All Stages of Product Planning
My work in product development covers everything from establishing new product concepts to deciding on raw materials and packaging specifications, designing, sourcing materials, and overseeing production. I am involved in a wide range of tasks, including package design, outsourcing coordination, marketing planning, and PR events, managing the process while keeping an eye on the bigger picture. Since this requires collaboration with many departments, communication skills are essential every day.
The Joy of Seeing My Ideas Take Shape
There is great satisfaction when a product I planned is completed and actually reaches consumers. In today’s age, where feedback comes directly through social media, receiving positive reactions and reviews enhances that sense of fulfillment. Moreover, successfully coordinating with various teams to achieve a shared goal brings a unique joy that makes this job particularly rewarding.
Gaining Perspective through Collaboration with Influencers
One memorable experience was developing a collaborative product with an influencer. By watching their YouTube videos to deepen my understanding of their brand and reflecting that in the product concept, I gained valuable insights into marketing and consumer understanding. Strategically coordinating everything, from landing pages to EC site integration, made this project a highly educational experience.
Creating Products through Trust and Collaboration
Harada Tea places great importance on inter-departmental collaboration. Each employee is given a clear role and is expected to fulfill it responsibly. The more effectively communication crosses departmental boundaries, the smoother the work progresses and the better the results. This culture of collaboration is both fascinating and rewarding.
The Desire to Create Products with My Own Hands
Previously, I worked in advertising, designing and producing three-dimensional promotional materials. Back then, I was supporting clients’ PR efforts, but I increasingly wanted to plan and sell products myself. That desire led me to Harada Tea, where I could work in Japan’s core tea industry, creating and expanding products with my own hands.
Applying Design and Communication Experience
The attention to visual presentation I developed in advertising has been invaluable in packaging production and promotions. Additionally, the communication skills I honed while liaising with external vendors help me coordinate across departments in my current role. I feel that my past experiences directly shape my work style and approach today.
Developing a Perspective to Grasp the Essence and Build Systems
The Product Department works closely with many divisions, so the range of necessary knowledge and skills is vast. I focus on organizing information, recognizing patterns, and systematizing processes. However, that alone isn’t enough; understanding the essence of the work and listening to feedback from the floor is crucial. In the future, I aim to expand my perspective beyond product development into marketing and PR, providing even better value proposals.
Leveraging Personal Experience to Enhance Work
I believe that no matter your background, previous experiences can always be applied in some way. By acquiring standard skills required in each department while adding your personal touch and experience as strengths, you can make your work more impactful. Developing the ability to organize information, grasp the big picture, and balance understanding with explanation enhances the quality of work. Harada Tea provides an environment where this can be practiced. Let’s take on these challenges together.