Ambition and Ingenuity: Impact-Focused Leader Noriko Hattori Country Manager of Roche Diabetes Care Japan and Korea

Meet Noriko Hattori: At the forefront of the foreign medtech landscape in Japan, Noriko Hattori is a beacon of ambition and ingenuity. Her career, marked by tenacity and vision, began as a marketing trainee at Sanofi in Europe. From there, she climbed the corporate ladder with determination: completing Novo Nordisk’s global graduate program, transitioning through roles from Brand Manager to Marketing Director at Sanofi, returning to Novo Nordisk as a Brand Lead, and later stepping into the role of Business Unit Director at Abbott in Japan. Today, she shines as the Country Manager of Roche Diabetes Care for both Japan and Korea. Noriko’s unique blend of STEM and business education has been instrumental in her accelerated rise, always finding a niche where she could excel. Beyond her formidable professional accomplishments, Noriko is a devoted mother to two girls and a driving force in introducing innovative medical solutions to patients. In a recent intimate chat with Karin Wellbrock, Partner at Kay Group, she generously delved into her journey, presenting a goldmine of guidance for young professionals and future leaders.  

Planting the Seeds for Science 

Karin: Hey, Noriko, many thanks for having time for an interview today. How are you?

Noriko: I am good, thanks. Just finished presenting my business plan and so I am very happy and relaxed. However, I had to manage my emotions during the presentation, but it went well.

Karin: I remember managing your emotions was a topic a while back. It seems you have settled in really well in your role as country manager.

Noriko: Yes, I have. Emotions are natural and I am working on how to best use them in my role when I speak up for my business and organization. 

Karin: That shows you are constantly learning in your role. Can you shed some light on your journey, particularly for young women considering STEM? Perhaps start with your early influences? 

Noriko: Of course. Growing up, my father, who had a science background, nurtured my love for science. He’d perform experiments and use simple models to explain scientific phenomena. Whether it was showing the inner workings of a light bulb or explaining lunar phases using fruits and a bulb, he made learning interactive and fun. This hands-on approach appealed to me more than subjects that required rote memorization. Hence, my inclination towards science was clear from an early age. 

Karin: That’s inspiring. Did you consider any other career paths? 

Noriko: Yes, I did toy with the idea of becoming a medical doctor, influenced by my grand aunt, who was one of the rare female physicians for her generation in Japan.

Parents, Values, and Trailblazing Paths

Karin: Let’s rewind a bit. How did your upbringing shape the path you’re on now? 

Noriko: My journey has been a mix of pragmatism and passion. My parents would have supported any of my choices regarding university studies, whether it was medicine or any other field. It was a high school event at Tokyo Institute of Technology, though, that introduced me to the wonders of biotech. The spark I felt there led me to Tokyo University and a specialized focus on the societal effects of human genetics. 

Karin: And how did your parents play a role in all of this? 

Noriko: My parents were my compass. My father, born under unique circumstances in Tokyo - he was brought up by a single mother, prioritized intellect over material wealth. My mother, rooted in traditional values, was the practical force in our home. Together, they prioritized my education and growth, always wanting the best for me without tying me down to any societal mold. 

Karin: Were there others who inspired you along the way? 

Noriko: Certainly. My father's progressive views on gender roles, coupled with my grand aunts' groundbreaking careers, set the stage for my aspirations. I had one aunt create waves in the hairdressing business and another break barriers in medicine. My cousin, who pursued her dreams in Europe as a pianist, also expanded my horizons. Their successes have been a beacon for my own ambitions.

Educational Foundations and Personal Values

Karin: Tell me about your educational journey. 

Noriko: I went to a notable girls' school, founded by missionaries more than 150 years ago with the intent of empowering Japanese women. Its emphasis was on ‘if values govern you, you don’t need rules.’ This taught me about individuality from a every age.

Karin: So, empowerment was a theme for you from early on? 

Noriko: Without a doubt. The school echoed my father's mantra – if you have a choice, pick something nobody else would.’ My years at this school anchored my values and today, they form the foundation of my leadership approach.

Karin: What core values guide you? 

Noriko: I champion uniqueness, value diversity, and prize independence. I'm also skeptical about adhering to rules without understanding their essence.

Karin: In summary, you advocate for challenging the norms, embracing diversity, and upholding independence? 

Noriko: Exactly. These principles guide every step I take.

Experiences, Cultural Differences, and Personal Growth

Karin: So, during your university years, you encountered a cultural clash between your values and some traditional Japanese norms. How did that play out?

Noriko: Yes, my time at Tokyo University (Todai) was eye-opening. The institution mirrored many traditional aspects of Japanese society. With the evident gender imbalance and age-old expectations of women, especially in science labs, I often felt at odds with the surroundings.

Karin: That sounds challenging. How did that affect you?

Noriko: It was tough. Instances like women attending Todai gatherings primarily to find potential husbands were a sharp contrast to my values. I couldn’t resonate with such practices. Plus, even with something as basic as club memberships not open to Todai female students but only to the others, there was resistance to change. This created a feeling of being in a place where my principles were being sidelined.

Karin: And how did you navigate through this?

Noriko: It wasn’t easy. The weight of the societal norms versus my beliefs sometimes took a toll, leading me to feel confined and at times, depressed. But being nominated for field research in Thailand and hearing more about open academic cultures from one of my professors and friends who were studying in the U.S. gave me hope. Moreover, my parents, especially my father, understood my feelings and always stood by me, encouraging me to carve my path. Their unwavering support led me to complete my undergraduate and pursue further studies.

Navigating Towards Success: Choosing the Right Path in Business

Karin: From lab research to business – how did that shift happen? 

Noriko: In the lab, I often felt the repetitiveness of research and craved more dynamic interactions. I recognized the high stakes of a research career – the need to be in prestigious labs and publish in top journals – and saw potential pitfalls. While I understood that basic research and its subsequent social impact take time, I wanted to make a faster and more tangible impact. This led me to feel drawn to the business world, and I even considered broadening my horizons overseas.

Karin: It sounds like you recognized the significance of choosing the perfect lab environment early on. 

Noriko: Correct. I noticed that many made their lab choices based on connections or academic heritage. Coming from a modest background and being a bit of an outsider to these unwritten codes, I wanted to find a level playing field. Europe beckoned. I set my sights on HEC in Paris. As the application process unfolded, I was the only Japanese applicant. With my background from Todai and HEC's inclination for a diverse student body, I believed I had a good shot. Plus, the added personal touch of the interviewer coming all the way to Japan stood out to me. I perceived Europe as a more favorable environment than the U.S.

Karin: So, Europe offered you a distinctive opportunity? 

Noriko: Exactly. European institutions seemed to value diversity, and I felt that worked in my favor. Landing a place at HEC was a win, followed by an uncommon internship at Sanofi – quite a feat for someone of my background. My distinct position as a Japanese woman, especially in Europe, likely had a hand in my acceptance into Novo Nordisk's management program. There were two openings: one local and one international. I secured the international slot. The hiring manager, who was familiar with Japan, recognized how unique my profile was in the European context. Being different turned out to be my strength.

Embracing Business and Building a Career

Karin: Noriko, it seems like you were trying to find a fish tank where you are rare. How did you transition into the pharma industry after your Master’s at HEC?

Noriko: My journey started with an internship at Sanofi's global marketing division in Paris during my HEC studies. My first manager suggested gaining experience in both global HQs and country organizations to truly understand the dynamics. Taking his advice, I transitioned from Sanofi's global HQ to their French country division. This manager became a trusted friend and advisor, even though he wasn’t my official mentor. When I was about to complete my Master’s, I reached out to him for advice. It led me to an international management program at Novo Nordisk. I began at their HQ in Denmark and later moved to their German division. My foundation in pharma product management was solidified there. But eventually, I circled back to Sanofi. An unexpected turn of events put me on the radar of Sanofi’s head of Japan, leading to a significant offer.

Karin: That sounds like a big break. What was the offer?

Noriko: They wanted me to launch a new product in Japan. It wasn't just about the product launch – it was a leadership role in Japan, with a team to lead. Quite the triple challenge!

Karin: Such an opportunity seems golden. Did you have any reservations?

Noriko: Oh, absolutely. While it was enticing, I was torn about returning to Japan. I was also young, pregnant, and unsure about juggling a product launch with impending motherhood. The weight of the responsibilities gave me pause. However, after discussions with close confidants, I decided to dive in. It was a first in many ways for me – my inaugural team, and my debut product launch. What began with a team of two eventually grew to twenty by the end of the launch.

Balancing Professional Challenges and Motherhood

Karin: To clarify, when you were presented with this leadership opportunity, you were on the cusp of becoming a first-time mother, right?

Noriko: That's correct. I expressed to the general manager my willingness to take on the role, but I emphasized the need to at least have my child and take a short maternity break before diving into it. It seemed overwhelming to handle both simultaneously. Thankfully, my boss was understanding. We agreed I'd return by the year's end, post-maternity, to kick off the product launch. And so, my professional journey in Japan began.

Karin: Reflecting on that time, is there anything you wish you had known about juggling motherhood, managing a team, and being a working professional?

Noriko: I believe I let fear grip me more than it should have. Honestly, I may have declined the role if I didn't have solid support.

Karin: When you mention support, do you mean someone from the HQs?

Noriko: Yes, I had a close friend who became a mentor for me. Whenever I questioned my own skills, he'd remind me of my unique strengths. He'd ask if anyone else in Japan could do my job better, and the answer was always "no". Although I hadn’t worked in Japan or managed a team, he felt I was a great fit for Sanofi Japan. Another colleague, a former marketing director in Japan, echoed this sentiment. Many emphasized the value of self-confidence. I’m thankful the general manager in Japan saw my potential, and I had such strong support from others too.

Karin: Given your fierce independence and drive, why did self-doubt plague you during this decision?

Noriko: It felt like the world was on my shoulders. My unplanned pregnancy already had me anxious. On top of that, the thought of returning to Japan's demanding work culture and potentially not being accepted as a young female leader was daunting.

Karin: Yet, against these odds, you summoned the courage to face these challenges head-on. What propelled you?

Noriko: True. I did consider giving it a shot after discussions with those who believed in me. During this time, I came across "Lean In" by Sheryl Sandberg. She discusses women's hesitancy in taking on roles, while men often leap at opportunities. This imbalance results in a professional gender gap. Reading that, I saw a reflection of my situation and thought, "Maybe I should just try." And so, I did.

Role Models to Lean On and Finding Courage

Karin: Men and women face different biological realities like pregnancy. So, isn't the decision-making process inherently different?

Noriko: Every challenge is unique, but regardless of gender, it's crucial to have the bravery to grasp opportunities. In Europe, I encountered inspiring women who redefined work-life balance. A McKinsey partner I met traveled weekly to Africa for work, yet with her husband's unwavering support, they ensured a loving environment for their kids, who beamed with pride, sharing her journey through photos. This narrative stood in contrast to Japan, where such role models are less common. In Germany and Japan, societal norms often put working mothers under scrutiny. Yet in France, many mothers confidently entrusted daycares for their children's care while pursuing their careers. Their example showcased the possibility of balancing demanding jobs with fulfilling family lives.

Karin: So, you've encountered various models of working motherhood that influenced your path. How vital is personal organization when balancing a demanding career, children, and family?

Noriko: I've learned that the quest for perfection – being the ideal mother, wife, or professional – can be overwhelming. And it's unnecessary. My French colleagues were prime examples. They returned to work shortly after childbirth, undertook business trips, and ensured their partners were there for the kids. For many, business trips were moments of self-care, providing uninterrupted sleep and some personal time. The lesson here isn't about striving for perfection but creating a strong support network. My aspiration is to nurture a world where my daughters feel supported and empowered.

Personal Tragedy and Rediscovery

Karin: After your initial leadership role in Japan, you transitioned back to Europe and changed companies, right?

Noriko: Correct. Following my four-year tenure in Tokyo, I moved back to Europe following my husband. We faced a heart-wrenching ordeal when we lost our baby shortly after his birth. The weight of that tragedy made returning to work incredibly challenging. It was tough to manage my professional responsibilities, present in front of large groups, all while grappling with this deep personal loss and uncertainty about my career's next steps. 

Karin: Amidst this turmoil, how did you and your husband navigate your next steps?

Noriko: Given the heartbreak over our child and the unclear career trajectories, we felt the need for a fresh start. My husband secured a position in Denmark, and I joined him. I reached out to a former boss and as fate would have it, she had a suitable vacancy in her team. I stepped into that role, overseeing the GLP-1 portfolio for the European region. After spending about a year and a half in Denmark, my husband was offered a position in Japan, which led us back here. 

Breakthrough Leadership Experience in Large Country and Embracing Leadership

Karin: Once back in Japan, what path did you take next?

Noriko: Upon returning, I was able to leverage my unique position: being a Japanese woman with a scientific background combined with my leadership experience in the pharmaceutical industry. This propelled me into a marketing role at Abbott in Japan. A leadership shuffle at Abbott then presented me with an opportunity to head a business unit. This role was by far the most comprehensive leadership position I'd undertaken and offered a steep learning curve.

Karin: What differences in leadership did you notice between Europe and Japan?

Noriko: Leading in a major market like Japan is different from a regional role overseeing smaller European markets. In Japan, I had direct influence, abundant resources, and close ties with decision-makers at headquarters. It's an environment where a leader's impact is immediate and paramount. In contrast, regional roles often felt removed from direct business outcomes, making me question their value.

Karin: So, you found regional roles less fulfilling?

Noriko: Exactly. In regional positions, I felt distant from real business impact and lacked global influence. My passion truly lies in leading large country organizations where I can see and feel the tangible results of my leadership.

Impact of Corporate Culture on Mental Health

Karin: What led you to your current role as the country manager of Japan at Roche Diabetes Care?

Noriko: After some time, I began to see that my leadership approach was a bit different from Abbott's, and it started affecting me. When an opportunity at Roche presented itself, I considered making a change for several reasons. One significant factor was the potential to become the country manager, a career goal I've always had. Additionally, Roche's culture seemed more aligned with my personal values and professional strengths.

Karin: It sounds like a fulfilling move for you.

Noriko: It has been. The past two years at Roche have been enlightening. I feel I can be myself and that my leadership style resonates with the organization. 

Karin: Any key takeaways from experiencing different corporate cultures?

Noriko: My experiences in various companies have taught me that while I remain consistent as an individual, the way I'm perceived can vary based on the corporate culture. In essence, a company's culture can significantly influence perceptions and leadership experiences. I'm currently privileged to see firsthand how a company's culture and values can positively impact its operations. At Roche, the leadership model resonates deeply with my personal values and style, enabling me to lead with authenticity and sincerity.

Karin: A valuable insight. Leadership is indeed about perception. What advice would you give someone who considers changing companies? 

Noriko: Always assess a company's culture to ensure it aligns with your values and expectations.

Making an Impact and Charting Future Paths

Karin: You seem content in your current role. What's on the horizon for you? 

Noriko: I've been doing some introspection, particularly after attending a recent executive training on coaching. This experience helped me realize my deep passion for leadership. While I was initially reluctant to express my leadership aspirations, the training empowered me to speak up. It underscored the significance of self-advocacy and the need to clearly communicate my ambitions and envisioned roles. 

Karin: Any other leadership insights? 

Noriko: Certainly, I've recognized the importance of making an impact. Driving business growth and contributing positively to society are essential for me. I'm keeping these aspirations in mind as I plan my next steps.

Karin: How do you envision your next step? 

Noriko: Recently, I've engaged in conversations with global leaders in my division. They've emphasized the importance of articulating my ambitions for larger leadership positions. I realized that advancing in one's career requires both my initiative and the recognition of decision-makers. When the right moment comes, I'm going to grab the opportunity, and I know my family will be right behind me. 

Noriko's Empowering Advice for Young Women

Karin: Noriko, any pearls of wisdom for a young woman fresh out of school? 

Noriko: Of course! Remember to dance to your own beat. With all the world's expectations, don't feel boxed into roles or norms, be it as a woman, a leader, or a mother. Carve out your own path and embrace it. Europe taught me this, and it's a lesson that's enriched my journey. 

Karin: Breaking molds and forging your own path is such an empowering message for all young women! Thanks for the inspiration and best of luck, Noriko!

Feeling the spark from Noriko's incredible story? Whether you're aspiring to climb the leadership ladder or a mentor recognizing a 'Noriko' in your team, let's turn that inspiration into action! Connect with me at karin.wellbrock@kaygroup-asia.com, and together, we'll chart a course for your leadership journey or help you guide emerging leaders in your organization. Let's embark on this exciting path of growth and discovery!

About the Author 

Karin Wellbrock, Partner and COO at Kay Group K.K., anchors her expertise in a Tokyo-based consultancy specializing in leadership and organizational development. A certified Leadership and Team Coach, Karin is dedicated to propelling both seasoned and emerging executives to leave a significant imprint in their respective industries. Her 'Four Gem Model' assists in identifying the development needs and she helps the leaders in striking an optimal balance between their personal ambitions and the practical demands of their professional roles, often guiding them into senior leadership positions. Beyond individual coaching, Karin extends her influence through her work with NGOs and startups, and through her writing. She delves into the journeys of 'Exceptional Leaders in Japan' and dissects complex leadership scenarios, thereby enriching the managerial toolkit for leaders striving for peak performance. Contact: karin.wellbrock@kaygroup-asia.com