246 Alexandre Lanos, General Manager of Jean Rousseau Japan

Alex previously was an analyst for Marche Industriel Europe (Alternance), Assistant Commerciaux Grand Comptes, Assistant Commercial Manager Le Jardin Gaulois.

He is an alumnus of ISEAM (Institut Supérieur d'Études en Alternance du Management), Marne-la-Vallée, France.

Summary

Alex shares his experience leading a niche luxury brand specializing in handcrafted watch straps. His journey highlights how cultural sensitivity, trust-building, and adaptability are essential for leadership success in Japan.

Arriving in Japan with limited industry experience and only basic Japanese skills, Alex quickly rose to lead the local operation. His first priority was establishing clear communication between the Tokyo team and the French headquarters. By ensuring that HQ’s goals were understood and that local staff voices were heard, Alex built a foundation of mutual trust.

He placed strong emphasis on listening to his Japanese team—many of whom are skilled craftsmen focused on quality and detail. To bridge the cultural gap, Alex identified key team members who could act as informal leaders, helping to convey messages and feedback in both directions. This helped align the team with company goals while respecting local work styles.

Alex avoided rigid hierarchical leadership in favour of a more empathetic, collaborative approach. He promoted a family-like culture within the organization, valuing each team member's contributions and personal circumstances. This inclusive atmosphere fostered loyalty and motivation.

Japanese consumer expectations for customization and perfection heavily influenced product development. The Tokyo atelier created sweat-resistant straps specifically for Japan’s hot, humid summers—an innovation that was later adopted in other markets. Alex emphasized that Japan’s high standards in craftsmanship and service can drive global innovation in luxury retail.

Language and cultural understanding were also key. While Alex wasn’t fluent in Japanese at first, he committed to improving his skills to enhance communication. He encourages foreign leaders to learn even basic Japanese and take time to understand their teams before implementing changes.

For leaders new to Japan, Alex advises speaking individually with team members, understanding their motivations, and identifying trusted “captains” to serve as cultural and operational liaisons. He also recommends patience, especially given Japan’s risk-averse approach to decision-making.

Ultimately, Alex’s leadership style blends French heritage, Japanese values, and a personal commitment to continuous learning. His experience shows that successful leadership in Japan