CEO Insights Magazine

Leadership is the driving force that elevates companies to extraordinary success, guiding them to new pinnacles through vision, creativity, and strategic acumen. At the forefront of Shiraishi Kogyo Kaisha (SKK) is Hosoi Kazuyuki, a visionary leader whose career epitomizes the profound impact of exemplary leadership. With a foundational role at Shiraishi Central Laboratories, Hosoi embarked on a decade of fundamental research into Calcium Carbonate, furthering his expertise with a Ph.D. from Tohoku University. His transition to General Manager marked a pivotal shift, focusing on the commercialization and global expansion of SKK’s Ultra fine Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (UFPCC) products. In 2007, Hosoi spearheaded the establishment of a sophisticated cutting-edge plant in Europe, a venture that has since thrived under his stewardship. Currently based in Austria, he excels in developing new products and forging new markets. His leadership has been recognized with accolades such as the 2008 Encouragement Award (Kinki reagion) of Japan Institute of invention and innovation and the 2021 ISO/TC 256 Award for a special contribution, highlighting his significant contributions to innovation and standardization in his field. Let’s hear more in this one on one interaction.

Could you please provide an introduction to your company and its main areas of expertise?

I would like to first introduce our company, Shiraishi Kogyo Kaisha, Ltd. (SKK). Since 1909, SKK has been producing Precipitated Calcium Carbonate (PCC) powder. In 1927, we became the first company globally to establish commercial production of nano-sized PCC, also known as Ultra Fine PCC (UFPCC). Our UFPCC product gained worldwide recognition under the brand name ‘HAKUENKA'. This revolutionary advancement allowed us to explore a wide range of applications in industries such as rubber, plastic, printing ink, paint, paper, adhesives, sealants, food, and medicine. PCCs and UFPCCs enhance the products you use daily, elevating their quality. We take pride in being pioneers in the PCC industry, focusing on surface technology at both micro and nano levels.

Could you share the unique experiences Tohoku University in Japan provides, and what you gained from the campus life beyond academics?

I enrolled at Tohoku University as a working adult and spent three years studying fracture mechanics. Tohoku University stands out for its technological excellence and unique research institutes, attracting exceptional students globally. My research lab was multinational, highlighting the importance of English. Although my major was chemistry and my professor specialized in fracture mechanics, I learned to effectively communicate my research across disciplines. This experience fostered my logical thinking. It was fascinating to see how cutting-edge research at Tohoku University is supported by many skilled engineers affiliated with the institution.

Could you describe your leadership approach and the guidelines or methodologies you adhere to as a leader?

As captain of the soft tennis club in high school and university, I emphasized leading by example. My leadership approach today involves clarifying team and individual goals using the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Agreed-on, Realistic, Time-bound), and Acknowledgment. Having trained in coaching skills, I value personal growth and data-driven decision-making. As a basic scientist, I stress the importance of creating an environment where discussions are grounded in data, believing firmly that data does not lie.

What were the primary challenges you faced when establishing yourself as a successful leader, and how did you overcome them to achieve professional success?

My initial challenge was understanding different cultures when working with international companies.

At 38, I encountered my first real business dealings with an overseas firm, where contracts were a key element. To address this, I studied international business fundamentals through books and classes, and drafted several contracts and negotiated to conclude. This experience underscored the importance of providing logical explanations and building trust.

What is your future destination, and what advice would you offer to upcoming leaders in this industry?

My goal is to expand the use of our PCC and UFPCC products around worldwide and enhance their value in daily life.

Our products improve material properties through interactions between particle surfaces and substances such as plastics and adhesives. At the Shiraishi Group, we aim to contribute to society in the micro & nano world.

Though I am still growing personally and hesitate to offer advice, I believe new business leaders should embrace diversity, build trust, and adapt to the rapidly changing environment. Living in Europe, I’ve been impressed by the region’s high awareness and environmental philosophy, especially regarding CO2 emissions. Observing regional differences in thinking and behavior, I see the importance of adapting to global alliances and new business ventures. Balancing caution with speed is challenging in today’s business world. Ultimately, mutual recognition and trust will drive future success.

Hosoi Kazuyuki, Senior Managing Director, Shiraishi Kogyo Kaisha

Hosoi Kazuyuki was born on August 16, 1965, in Kawanishi City, Hyogo Prefecture. He graduated from the Faculty of Science at Kochi University and began his career at Shiraishi Central Laboratories, Co. Ltd. in April 1988, focusing on chemistry and material science. From 1994 to 1997, he pursued a Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering at Tohoku University. To broaden his knowledge in corporate management, he later completed an MBA in technology management at Kwansei Gakuin University.