Funeral-Altar Vows as Policy Triggers

“In 2017, four years after the introduction of morning-style work, Okafuji implemented a management policy that one would hope other company presidents would imitate as well. It is support for employees who are fighting long-term illnesses and, sadly, for those who have lost their lives. When he became president, an employee in the textiles division was battling cancer. That employee sent an email to Okafuji expressing gratitude for “the extremely long leave period, high coverage rate of medical expenses, and organizational support.” The end of the email said: “In my mind, Itochu is the best company.” However… The employee who sent the email passed away a month later at the young age of 56. Okafuji, who rushed to the funeral, sobbed uncontrollably without worrying about those around him, and made a vow in front of the altar. “Now, what I can do is to make this company, which you said was the best and a good company, an even more wonderful company, and report back to you in the near future.”

“Prevention is also important, not just treatment. I want to strengthen initiatives for preventing cancer as well.”