In a world where over 7,000 rare diseases exist, only a fraction, less than 10%, boast available treatment options. Since 2018, the focus of Recordati Rare Diseases Japan has been clear: aiding those grappling with lesser-known conditions. The goal? To mitigate the impact of these rare and often debilitating illnesses by providing much-needed medications in crucial therapeutic areas.
Recordati Rare Diseases Japan stands apart in its ability to deliver treatment options for rare diseases. With fully integrated operations from research and development to commercialization and licensing, the company is committed to expanding its reach. The growth trajectory includes the development of new specialties, treatments, and investments in medical innovations that promise hope for patients worldwide.
At Recordati Rare Diseases Japan, the spotlight is on those affected by ultra-rare diseases, often overlooked by conventional medical practitioners. Yasunori Hayashida, Responsible for HR at Recordati Rare Diseases Japan, reflects on the company’s journey. “When I joined Recordati, we were a small team of 15, lacking HR representation. Recognizing the urgent need to establish foundational HR practices, such as policies and compensation schemes, I, with a background in finance, stepped into the role. That’s how my HR career began.”
Over the past three years, the team has doubled in size, with a focus on nurturing internal talent. Hayashida notes, “Our commitment to employee development shines through in our practice of filling senior positions through internal promotions.”
Unleashing Potential Through Understanding and Innovation
Hayashida holds a steadfast belief in the inherent goodness of individuals and their diverse motivations for progress. “I believe the best in people and look for their desires or motivations for which they move forward,” he shares. “Because I believe everyone wants to move forward in their ways; some people are motivated by promotions or monetary rewards while others are more interested in their self-development or learning new things. Those who might appear slackers may simply have different motivations. Finding them is key to building an effective organization.”
To nurture a culture of innovation and inclusivity within the organization, Hayashida implements two guiding principles. “First, we encourage challenge,” he explains. “In the pharmaceutical industry, where regulations abound, there’s a tendency to adhere to past practices. Challenging the status quo and embracing innovation isn’t always easy. That’s why I often pose a simple question to myself and team members: ‘Why do we have to do things in the same way?’ The typical response, ‘because it’s proven to be OK,’ highlights a fear of making mistakes.”
In response to this fear, Hayashida adopts a forgiving approach to errors. “I never express negativity when people make mistakes,” he emphasizes. “Instead, I inquire, ‘What did you try to achieve?’ This communicates that it’s acceptable to approach tasks differently and to encounter setbacks, as long as there’s a contingency plan in place.”
Strategies for Innovation and Impact
In the face of Japan’s escalating national medical costs, Hayashida sees potential for transformation through innovative ideas and technologies. “New ideas and technologies can change the drastically structure and reduce cost when applied appropriately,” he observes. “I see some companies are proactively trying new things that can change the whole structure that was built decades ago.”
At Recordati Rare Diseases Japan, adaptation to regulatory shifts and technological advancements is paramount. This adaptability is underpinned by a multifaceted strategy emphasizing agility, foresight, and innovation. “Continuous learning and training are fundamental,” states Hayashida. “We invest in ongoing education and training for our employees to ensure they are up-to-date with the latest regulatory requirements and technological advancements. This empowers our team to anticipate and adapt to changes effectively.”
Furthermore, the company prioritizes risk management and scenario planning. “We implement robust risk management frameworks and conduct scenario planning exercises to anticipate potential impacts of regulatory changes and technological disruptions,” explains Hayashida. “This prepares us to pivot our strategies swiftly and efficiently.”
Additionally, agile methodologies permeate the organization’s operations. “Adopting agile methodologies allows us to be flexible and responsive to change,” notes Hayashida. “This approach facilitates rapid reaction and allocation of resources that address the dynamic business environment.” These strategies not only enable Recordati Rare Diseases Japan to navigate the complexities of regulatory and technological landscapes but also transform challenges into opportunities for growth and innovation.
The diseases targeted by the company’s medications are often so rare that they elude even specialists. “Many patients suffering from such diseases are unable to receive a correct diagnosis or proper treatment for a long time,” says Hayashida. To address this, the company provides daily information to medical institutions and societies, outlining typical symptoms of patients. This initiative aims to expedite accurate diagnoses and prompt treatment for those afflicted with these obscure conditions.
Empowering Impact: A Commitment to Employees and Patients
Reflecting on his journey as an Head of Shared Services / Senior Financial Controller, Hayashida recalls the profound moment of issuing his first offer letter to a candidate. “I remember the day I issued my very first offer letter to a candidate thinking that this letter will change the candidate’s life,” he shares. “The person believed in the company’s future and our vision, so I felt a big responsibility to have that person onboard. Making impacts on patients’ lives is the core of our business, and I feel that for employees’ lives is the core of my HR career. I still feel a huge responsibility every day. I believe making a better work environment for their career/life is the way to go.”
Prioritizing employee well-being and fulfillment is paramount for Hayashida. “As one of the employees, I’d like to be happily working for the company, and I want everyone to feel the same way,” he asserts. “It’s been one of our top priorities to decide what we don’t do at the beginning of the year, so we will have time to focus on the most important things in terms of business and also in terms of personal life.”
In alignment with their values, the company remains committed to making a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. “In terms of business, we will continue to grow to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives,” Hayashida affirms. “I, as Head of Shared Services, strongly believe in capabilities of a lean organization to be the front runner of the rare diseases arena by focusing on the few.”
Recordati Rare Diseases Japan’s journey from a small company to a beacon of innovation serves as inspiration. “Our story of a small company with a strong ambition for innovation stands as a testament to what can be achieved when we dare to envision beyond the horizon,” says Hayashida. “I hope it serves not only as a blueprint for success in our industry but as a spark that ignites others’ inspirations, encouraging others to build a future where every challenge is met with resilience and unwavering optimism.”
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