Ushiki Masayuki (牛木 真之), a Sojitz employee responsible for operating one of the world's largest hospitals in Istanbul, introduces the reality of medical services combining the strengths of Japan and Türkiye, as well as his management responsibilities locally.
Ushiki Masayuki (牛木 真之), who is involved in the joint operation of one of the world's largest hospitals in Istanbul, Türkiye, with a local partner, says the hospital has approximately 2,800 beds and a total floor area of approximately 1 million square metres, and serves as a core institution supporting regional healthcare. The hospital has continued providing medical services since opening in 2020. By combining expertise from Japan and Türkiye, the operation incorporates management approaches from both countries, including the use of Japanese-made medical equipment. Ushiki is responsible for managing the progress of the overall business, resolving issues, coordinating with stakeholders and managing the local team.
His day-to-day work often involves coordinating with multiple stakeholders and attending meetings while taking the time difference with Japan into account. His daily schedule typically includes meetings with the Tokyo head office, meetings with local stakeholders, guiding hospital tours, checking progress and preparing internal materials. English is used primarily in the local working environment, although he sometimes participates in meetings conducted only in Turkish. Interacting with local staff through company activities, including sporting events, is also part of his work.
He also discusses cultural differences, saying he has experienced differences in the speed and approach to decision-making. In Türkiye, rapid decision-making and action are prioritised, while in Japan there is a tendency to proceed carefully through extensive advance preparation and coordination with stakeholders. He says that understanding the strengths of both approaches and finding the optimal balance depending on the situation is one of the rewarding aspects of working in a global environment. He adds that working with people from different cultures has broadened his perspective and helped him develop a multifaceted way of looking at things.