Involving members in six countries and supervising overall testing for mass production

Currently, I am a test manager in a mass production development project for steering products for Japanese automobile manufacturers. I am in charge of customer contact for evaluation and verification, as well as overseeing all aspects of testing. The mission of the test manager is to monitor whether the test plan is optimal across the entire system, software, mechanics, and hardware, and to actively follow up and resolve any progress delays or problems.

The projects I am involved in are large-scale projects involving many bases such as Japan, Germany, China, the United States, India, and Vietnam. We communicate flatly with engineers at each site. Troubles are inevitable in a development project, but you can demonstrate your skills as a test manager in how to solve problems and proceed smoothly with each global base. In addition to technical knowledge, the ability to involve and coordinate with many members is required. I think that this is a high-level mission, but I feel that it is unique to Bosch to be able to act independently and with a great deal of discretion while experiencing cutting-edge technology in the automotive industry.

Overcoming differences in speed and processes, and aiming to become a project manager

I originally applied to Bosch with the aim to become a system project leader, but I thought that it would be better first to gain experience in the products and the working style at Bosch, and I was offered the position of test manager.

When I actually joined Bosch, I was surprised to find that although the basic knowledge in development did not change, there were differences in the way of thinking and work processes between Bosch and Japanese companies. What I particularly struggled with was the sense of speed. At Bosch, if there is rationality and grounds for something, decisions can be made quickly, even if they are challenging. The speed was quite different from my previous job, so it was difficult to break away from the culture I was used to. Therefore, I used talks with my superiors and the mentor system, which allowed me to consult with managers of other divisions, to get accustomed to my work while voicing my concerns and resolving them. On the other hand, even though Germany is the headquarter, the presence of Japanese bases is high, and the fact that Japan's business is respected is a gap in a good sense.

I feel that my experience at Bosch, which is completely different from my previous environment, will be a great source of inspiration for my career. First, I learned Bosch's methodology as a test manager, and the next step is to become a system project leader, as I have hoped for. Going forward, as a project manager, I would like to lead a mass production development project to success.