-Life as a Country Manager for Haribo Japan-
Within the world of commerce, we all know that companies exist quite simply in order to make profit. This statement as obvious and emotionless as it may be is fact.
What is interesting to consider however is how certain products through their own quality, likability and a host of other factors break through and come to represent more.
They enter our consciousness symbolic of something deeper. Something more than just a money-making means to an end.
Some products even cross over into the realm of pop-culture where they become somewhat ubiquitous in the scope of life and living beyond just their utility based value. Consider a pair of Nikes, RayBans or even an iPhone.
These products have arguably nestled into a rarefied air as being commonly considered part of our collective cultural existence.
What is even more fascinating is how some of these brands have sustained this status across multiple consumer lifetimes in multiple countries and across multiple cultures.
Well, on today’s show, we have the opportunity to discuss one such brand product with an individual eminently qualified to talk on such matters.
Introducing
Paul Kraft is the Japan Country Manager for Haribo a German confectionary company that famously gave the world the gift of gummy bears or Goldbears as officially labelled.
Professional Background
Originally from Minnesota USA, Paul began his career in brand management working with frozen pizza and dessert categories, consumer insights, and M&A roles. He then relocated to Japan where he headed the packaged goods business for Starbucks in Japan & Korea.
Recent Accomplishment
After launching HoneyBaked Ham within the Japanese market and a post at Nestle Nespresso, he most recently joined the German confectionary company HARIBO to lead their Japan expansion – and drove the Goldbear brand to the #1 market share position in its category.
Educational Background
Paul holds a Masters in International Management along with a BA in finance and economics – both from the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minnesota.
Consultation
As the chair of the Food & Agriculture committee of the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan, Paul frequently consults and speaks on tailoring foreign brands for Japan.
Reasons to Listen
This engaging conversation gives listeners a peek into life at a country manager executive level and the challenges and opportunities that accompany such a role.
This will be a talk worth listening to for:
- those looking for inspiration and insights on how they too could create a fulfilling overseas career
- those interested in finding out what types of skills, mindsets and approaches are required to have a successful international career as a country manager for a major global brand
- those interested in learning more about business within the confectionary industry
Listeners will come away with insights on:
- Specific duties a country manager may often conduct within their respective positions
- An inspirational story about how Paul pivoted his career when he realized one of his first professional experiences was not a great fit
- The role of curiosity in leading Paul to international career success
- The role he must play as far as managing and respecting culture when leading a global brand in a foreign market
- The role of strong communication and cultural skills as far as being a key to having a successful international career
- His approach to handling individual differences of staff and how to make the most of such dynamics
- One particular strategic decision he and his team made that helped propel the Gold Bear brand to massive success
- The benefits have having a career in a global city
- A story illustrating how business and patriotism can intersect at times to create fulfilling moments
- On how confectionery companies are adjusting and adapting to the health and wellness era we are moving into
- Much more!
A Memorable Quote from the Episode:
“You can’t do anything if you can’t communicate. I think the biggest challenge is always getting both sides of the table aligned on what we’ve decided, what the next steps are, what’s a priority, what’s not a priority. That’s the big one.”
-Paul Kraft
Check out the Video Conversation:
For those who desire to view the full video conversation of this discussion, you can do so via Youtube.
Words of Wisdom:
Hear from Paul as he provides advice to those looking to explore international careers.
Discover More
For those interested in learning more about Paul and his work, you can check out these links:
Keep Listening!
I hope you enjoyed the episode. For more, check out additional episodes here!
