Daihatsu's Rebirth Journey: Narratives from the Trenches of Transformation
In a significant turn of events, Japanese automaker Daihatsu has embarked on a journey of reform and renewal after certification irregularities were discovered in 2023. The company's President, Masahiro Inoue, has been at the helm of this transformation, leading the charge with determination and resolve.
In March 2024, President Inoue spearheaded the launch of a new organizational structure and reforms, marking the beginning of Daihatsu's fresh start. This was further solidified on December 20, 2023, when "Fresh Start Day" was designated, marking the day the third-party committee released their audit findings.
As part of these efforts, Daihatsu has established the Koudoukan, a place for employees to think and act about the certification issues and prevent recurrences. The Koudoukan serves as a significant part of Daihatsu's ongoing reform process, fostering a culture of introspection and accountability.
President Inoue called upon all Daihatsu employees to pledge to prevent recurrences both now and in the future on "Fresh Start Day." The genba (workplace) at Daihatsu is characterized by employees moving forward with determination and resolve, reflecting the company's commitment to reform.
Toyota Times recently visited Daihatsu's headquarters in Osaka in October 2024, where they reported on the emotional state of Daihatsu employees during the period following the certification issues. The report suggests a period of significant challenge but also commitment to reform and renewal.
Employees at Daihatsu have reflected on the real cause of the certification issues, the pain of being unable to explain things, and the quiet strength they found in facing the issues head-on. The overall tone from Toyota Times points to a mix of earnest determination, responsibility, and a sense of cautious hope for recovery within Daihatsu's workforce as they navigate these reforms.
The reforms at Daihatsu are currently making steady progress to prevent a recurrence of certification issues. The announcement of the new Move by Daihatsu in June 2025, led by President Masahiro Inoue, is a significant milestone in their reform process.
In a video released by Daihatsu, employees speak openly from the heart about their experiences at Daihatsu, further demonstrating the company's commitment to transparency and open communication. Toyota leadership, including Vice President Nakajima, has emphasized the importance of cultural reforms and close engagement with the genba to detect irregularities and foster open communication, which seems to be bearing fruit.
As Daihatsu continues to navigate its reform process, the company and its employees remain focused on prevention, transparency, and collaboration, aiming to rebuild trust and operations in the wake of the certification issues.
- Collaboration between various industries, such as finance, transportation, and automotive, is crucial for supporting Daihatsu's business recovery as it navigates its reform process, helping to prevent a recurrence of certification irregularities.
- The reforms at Daihatsu, including the establishment of the Koudoukan, have fostered a culture of introspection and accountability within the company, promoting transparency and open communication, essential elements in regaining trust in the finance sector and beyond.
