This supportive community empowers you to step out of your comfort zone and take on numerous challenges throughout your university life.

Please share your career after graduation from Ritsumeikan University

SUZUKIMy career began at NEC, where I joined as a fresh graduate. In this role, I was responsible for global sales of facial recognition products. As I approached my third year at NEC, I decided to take on a new challenge and joined SAP.

At SAP, I took on the role of Account Executive. In this position, I led a global team focused on selling ERP and other IT solutions to net new customers. Alongside my primary responsibilities, I had the opportunity to participate in the fellowship program. This initiative allowed me to work in the President's office of SAP Asia Pacific Japan (APJ) under the chief of staff, providing me with a broader perspective on the company's regional operations.

In January 2024, I transitioned into my current role as a Digital Demand Manager. I'm now leading the transformation of the demand generation process in Japan through the implementation of digital technologies.

Please tell us about your current work. What led you to this profession?

SUZUKII joined SAP with the goal of honing my sales skills at a global industry leader. I thrived in my sales role, earning the Winners Circle award, which recognizes outstanding customer-facing success, with the support of my colleagues.

As I progressed in a sales role, I developed a keen interest in creating operations to support sales teams organizationally. This led me to my current position, where I focus on implementing digital technologies to bolster demand generation activities.

What excites me most about my current role is the opportunity to contribute to operational transformation at a global industry leader. I find it particularly rewarding to adapt global and regional best practices to meet Japan's local requirements, bridging international strategies with local needs.

How does your experience while at the College of International Relations benefit you now?

SUZUKIDuring my university years, I spent a year studying in Norway through an exchange program.

Studying from a Nordic viewpoint was eye-opening. The diverse opinions in classroom discussions honed my ability to understand issues from multiple angles, a skill that has proven invaluable in my professional life.

Back in Japan, I joined an international politics seminar in my third year. This experience challenged me to form and articulate my own opinions on global events. The seminar's debate format illuminated how countries and organizations can have vastly different stances on the same issue.

Perhaps most excitingly, I learned to apply academic theories to real-world situations. This practice of experimenting with different theoretical lenses to gain new insights into current events became a thrilling intellectual exercise.

When looking back on your days at Ritsumeikan University, how do you find the College of International Relations attractive?

SUZUKIOne of the most striking aspects of the College is its incredibly diverse environment. Here, you'll find peers who not only accept but actively encourage all kinds of challenges. This supportive community empowers you to step out of your comfort zone and take on numerous challenges throughout your university life.

The impact of the College extends well beyond graduation. Many of my classmates have gone on to work for global companies or take up positions overseas. This creates a network where pursuing new challenges and embracing global opportunities is the norm rather than the exception.

The College of IR is a place where ambitious dreams are nurtured, diversity is celebrated, and the pursuit of new challenges is ingrained in the culture.

Could you send some messages to prospective and current students for the College of International Relations at Ritsumeikan University?

SUZUKIThe field of International Relations offers a diverse range of foundational courses, including politics, economics, law, and business. This variety allows you to discover your true interests and passions. Remember, your challenges and opportunities are global in scope. If you're someone who constantly seeks growth, you'll find that professors and classmates are more than willing to support you.

There's an African proverb that says, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." This wisdom is especially true in our field. Continuous growth is impossible without the support of those around you. By valuing these relationships and maintaining a sense of gratitude, you'll constantly evolve into the person you aspire to be.

The College of IR provides a unique environment where you can form lasting connections with a diverse, global network of peers.

December 2024