First Steps in My New Role: Lessons from an Unexpected Start
Starting a new leadership role rarely unfolds exactly as planned — and sometimes, it begins even before your official start date.
For me, the transition into my position began before April 1, 2025. While I was still officially with my previous employer until the end of March, I carved out a few days in late March to get a head start. I’m glad I did.
The reason was unexpected: my new boss, the Vice President for the Asia-Pacific region, announced his resignation effective the end of March. In just three days, we arranged several critical handover meetings. Those early conversations proved invaluable, giving me an immediate sense of the opportunities and challenges ahead.
The company’s Tokyo office, conveniently located near Roppongi and only a short commute from my home, made a strong first impression — clean, spacious, and with a private office already prepared for me.
As I began meeting the Tokyo-based team, I noticed a range of reactions. Some colleagues were warm and welcoming; others were more reserved, perhaps cautious. It reminded me of a scene from The Godfather:
“Before Vito passes away, he tells Michael that the man who has betrayed him will approach Michael and try to arrange a meeting with Barzini. At Vito’s funeral, his words come true — Tessio makes the approach.”
I met my own “Tessio” sooner than expected.
Despite the turbulence, I was clear about my purpose: to build a strong, united team and lay the groundwork for meaningful growth in Japan’s medical device sector.
This was just the first step in what promises to be a challenging and rewarding journey.
