We sit down with the insightful Kerry Ellis, a Senior Business Partner at Decipher Group in Christchurch, who has extensive experience in both New Zealand and Japan. Kerry shares fascinating stories and valuable insights about engaging with the Japanese market, understanding cultural differences, the importance of all kinds of diversity in business and how to successfully transition to work in Japan. We also delve into some fun “hanami” cherry blossom viewing stories and the protocols you want to make sure you know before you go! Join us as we explore the intersection of business, culture, and diversity in this enriching conversation with Kerry Ellis.

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In this episode you’ll hear:

• Catherine’s rather shocking first hanami experience
• Some of the possibilities that might surprise you about coming to work in Japan, even with little or no Japanese
• Kerry’s number one gem of advice for cross-cultural communication
• The importance of thought diversity for business and how New Zealanders can contribute to Japan

About Kerry

Kerry is a Senior Partner at Decipher Group in Christchurch. He helps organisations to not only recruit top talent, but also connect business networks (with some focus on Japanese affiliations) across Japan and New Zealand.

Kerry became interested in Japan through living with homestay students in New Zealand through his High School years. He has had two different experiences in Japan about 10 years in length. He was initially in education whilst living in Shizuoka prefecture and the latter 10 years in recruitment in Tokyo. Ironically it was the earthquake in New Zealand that expedited Kerry’s return to Japan in 2011, despite the Tohoku earthquake in Japan in the same year.

With over 10 years of recruitment experience across Japan and New Zealand, Kerry has a deep understanding of the local and international talent markets and the challenges and opportunities they present.

Connect with Kerry

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elliskerry1/

Website: https://www.deciphergroup.co.nz/

Jandals in Japan is brought to you by Catherine O’Connell Law and PodLaunch with Jayne

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