In this series, we meet members of the Endoscopy team from different regions around the world. This month we talk to Yoshi, our regional manager for Cook Medical in Japan.
1. What is your current position with Cook Medical and how long have you been in this position?
I am the Regional Manager for Cook Medical in Japan and joined the company in 2007.
2. What is a typical day like for you?
I visit with subject matter experts in the physician community. I also spend considerable time collaborating with our sub-dealers, who are very important to the Japan market.
3. What, in your opinion, makes Cook Medical a unique company?
Cook Medical has built a culture that values relationships, friendships, respect and culture. We cultivate innovation and look for simple, solid solutions to complex problems. Cook is very focused on keeping these characteristics and values at the core of who we are as a company.
4. What about Cook Medical makes you most proud?
I am very proud of and inspired by the life story of Bill Cook, founder of Cook Medical, and his policy of always “doing the right thing for patients.” He was known for channelling his energy into changes that would make the world around him better. He believed in close relationships with customers and listened to them intently. He has been an inspiration to those of us lucky enough to work for the company he built. When I visited headquarters in Bloomington last year, I was able to experience this energy and inspiration first-hand.
5. We are constantly striving to be innovative at Cook Medical. Tell me how you see this in action in the field.
Innovation is all about teamwork. I see great results when individuals come together, each with their own unique talents, to work together on a problem or opportunity. It is the only way to succeed. I have a great feeling of respect toward all the team members.
6. What do you like to do when you’re not working?
There was a massive earthquake and tsunami in the Japan’s Tohoku district in March 2011. Many Cook Endoscopy employees sent a card with heartfelt, encouraging messages to Japan after this disaster. It is still an important memory for us, as well as an ongoing cause. The area is still on the way to reviving almost seven years later. Using our vacation and other spare time, my wife and I do volunteer work in Fukushima. We want to contribute to the society and we feel privileged that we are able to do so.