Through the global engagement survey, we listen to employees and work continuously to improve human resource-related measures.
Basic Approach
The industrial gases business forms a critical part of the industry's infrastructure, while the Thermos business provides lifestyle products used daily by people around the world. Integrity is the cornerstone of our human resources, supporting the Group's corporate activities in areas such as respect for human rights, safety and security, and corporate ethics. Without integrity, we cannot earn the trust of our stakeholders, including customers and investors.
In FYE2024, we were able to compare our global engagement survey results with the previous year for the first time, and we found that the entire Group had made collective improvements. This progress is undoubtedly due to various factors; however, I believe that one key driver was employees engaging with integrity in their respective roles, influencing one another positively, and demonstrating excellent teamwork.
Our organizational culture is designed to ensure that we fulfill our social responsibilities as a company, in line with the Group's Code of Conduct. By fostering employee engagement through a shared commitment to the Group's Philosophy and Vision, I believe the Group can make an even greater contribution to society.
Talent Development Strategy for Continuous Growth
The Group, comprising Nippon Sanso Holdings and its operating companies, operates with a focus on on-site production and consumption of industrial gas products, which emphasizes the autonomy of its operating companies. This same approach is applied to our talent strategy, recognizing that people are our most valuable management resource. While this autonomy enhances the activity of the operating companies, the Group also shares and addresses human resource challenges collectively to align with the broader management strategies that require engagement across the entire Group.
In promoting diversity, securing and developing talent with diverse knowledge, experience, and perspectives is crucial for global growth in the rapidly changing business environment. The mediumterm management plan (MTP), NS Vision 2026, particularly emphasizes the active participation of women. In Japan, where progress in this area has been slower, we launched specific initiatives in April to strengthen our organization and personnel, rolling out these initiatives rapidly. Although progress toward achieving the FYE2026 numerical targets has been slower in some regions due to organizational reforms and other factors, we are working to embed individual talent strategies across each region during the MTP period.
Regarding employee engagement, as mentioned earlier, the Group's overall participation rate and scores have improved. However, it is crucial for management to analyze these results, propose measures to enhance the work environment, and implement them in collaboration with the relevant stakeholders. Responses to questions about diversity, in particular, provide valuable insights for future policy proposals, and employee feedback should be incorporated into our initiatives to drive continuous improvement.
Another critical focus is on securing and developing global talents. The opportunities of the electronics business and the carbon neutral field are expected to grow more, while IT security and other areas face increasing threats each year. The entire Group must engage in global talent exchanges and collaboration to seize opportunities and address these challenges effectively.
Additionally, the continued global promotion of Operational Excellence, which involves sharing successful measures and advanced case studies to boost productivity, will have a significant impact. The NSHD holding company functions, which understand and coordinate with each operating company's specific areas, businesses, and human resources, are well-positioned to develop and execute more effective strategies for the entire Group. These functions are carried out by human resources with the desire and capability to act globally, and we will focus on securing and developing such talent, particularly in Japan, including NSHD, where progress has been somewhat slower.
The Group boasts exceptional talent worldwide. We will work closely with our operating companies to create an environment where all employees can deeply commit to the Company's Vision and Mission and fulfill their duties toward achieving the MTP. This will enable them to grow personally, contribute to society and the planet, and take pride in their roles as "The Gas Professionals" or Thermos professionals.
Yasukazu Takada
General Manager of Human Resources
Nippon Sanso Holdings Corporation