My name is Yasufumi Sugahara, Executive Managing Officer, Co-COO, and Head of the Smart Life Business Group.

The mission of the Smart Life Business Group is to provide customers with convenient and innovative value through the use of AI. To fully leverage Sharp’s comprehensive strengths and generate new possibilities, it is essential that we integrate and collaborate our home appliance, TV, and energy businesses altogether. By enhancing customer convenience and value through AIoT and combining it with solar-powered energy management, we aim to unlock even greater potential. Furthermore, we will incorporate non-Sharp products such as lighting equipment and water heaters, and work in synergy with infrastructure businesses to build a smart home. Through these efforts, we will deliver services that improve the quality of life and further strengthen Sharp’s presence in the marketplace.

Collaboration between business groups (BGs) is also critically important. Each product division holds valuable information about corporate customers, so I believe we must begin by sharing that information. We will promote cooperation not only among BG heads but also at the front-line level to maximize our collective strengths.

I transferred from the sales department of a sales subsidiary (now SMJ-HS) to the planning department of the Home Appliance Systems Business Unit (current SAS) in 2002. I then joined the refrigerator planning team, but at first, I found it really difficult to understand the discussions about things like pricing and product features, which were discussed there. I honestly had no idea what I was supposed to do during my first year. However, when I was later put in charge of planning a small refrigerator, I visited and interviewed student users, ultimately gaining valuable insights into the lives of students living alone. These insights were reflected in the product through collaboration with campus stores. The project proposal I wrote then remains a personal cornerstone and I still keep it with me as a personal reminder. Of course, I’ve had my share of both successes and failures. For instance, I once focused too much on technical specifications and failed to consider user lifestyles and convenience—leading to considerable criticism. These experiences have taught me the importance of thoroughly understanding customer needs, a principle that continues to guide me today.

I tend to get very nervous, especially in my younger days. Before presentations, I would write out my entire script word for word and read from it. I’d be drenched in sweat by the end even with all that preparation. But through repeating experience in front of customers and at planning meetings, I transitioned to noting just bullet points, and eventually, I no longer needed a script. Even now, I always think carefully about what message I want to convey and to whom. I believe the ability to communicate one’s thoughts is a critical skill. That’s why I encourage everyone—especially those who are uncomfortable speaking in public—not to shy away, but to gain experience and overcome their fears.

To all employees, I hope you will embody sincerity and creativity as your foundation, understand and embrace Sharp’s unique value, and grow together with the company. It’s important take on challenges with a mindset “Start by saying YES” instead of saying “I cannot do that.” With that mindset, please find collaborators to work together to solve your challenges. Even the most difficult problems can be overcome by taking on the challenge. Let’s join forces and shape the Sharp’s future together!

Career History

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