“Departments continue to help me be more successful. I enjoy learning and the challenges of working in new areas.”
Ri
MEET OUR PEOPLE
Ri, Buyer, Global Purchasing, Japan
What do you do as a buyer at Astemo?
I work in the Global Direct Purchasing Unit in the Group Sourcing and Procurement Division. As a buyer of these materials, which are required to manufacture parts, I am responsible for working with our supplier network to source, negotiate pricing and seek continuous cost improvements. As product changes or demands for parts shift, I negotiate different supplier terms for the necessary adaptations. Additionally, as we develop and launch new parts, I am involved in sourcing the materials we need for these future product programs. Astemo is a large company with offices in 27 countries, so we seek global quotations as well as global commonization to realize the greatest cost savings for our customers.
“ I have moved to different locations. The relationships I have built in these locations and departments continue to help me be more successful. I enjoy learning and the challenges of working in new areas. ”
Astemo embraces diversity in an inclusive environment. What has your experience been like?
My bachelor’s degree is in Japanese studies from a Chinese university. I came to Japan in 2012 to attend graduate school, earning a master’s degree in management studies and joined a company when I graduated in 2014. Some may have a stereotype of manufacturing organizations expecting that there will be fewer gender diversity and opportunities for work life balance. However, Astemo has strong support systems to help employees to excel. For example, I have a young daughter and took nearly a year-long maternity leave, returning to work. I work with many foreign colleagues each day and feel comfortable sharing my opinions in meetings. Diversity in an inclusive environment can make the ideas better and more actionable.
How are you enjoying your purchasing career?
I have moved to different locations. The relationships I have built in these locations and departments continue to help me be more successful. I enjoy learning and the challenges of working in new areas. I know it will lead to continual career growth and development as I grow in experience as a buyer. I love my work!
