3. Steering the Management Regionally

[4] Local Talent at the Center of DENSO’s Future Plans

Developing the key Indian national talent for Leadership

In the transformative years spanning 2017 to 2018, DENSO India strategically unfolded a long-term vision aimed at fortifying its power and influence in the dynamic Indian automotive landscape. The linchpin of this visionary strategy was the Localization of Management, a deliberate move to gradually integrate Indian members into decision-making processes, fostering empowerment and ownership within the organization.

As DENSO celebrated two decades of unwavering commitment to the Indian market, a pivotal initiative took shape – the development of Local Senior Management. This marked the inception of a comprehensive Management Reform, firmly grounded on three foundational pillars: Decentralization of decision-making authority, Simplification and streamlining of policies and processes, and Strengthened accountability and transparency.

In the backdrop of 2015, the groundwork for the Development of National Talent began, setting the stage for the creation of a robust second layer of leadership characterized by ownership and a profound understanding of the local environment. This decentralized leadership pattern was not merely a restructuring exercise but a strategic plan to enhance the capabilities of local members and elevate them to senior management roles.

Skill enhancement and talent development emerged as the cornerstone of this transformative journey, with a focus on assignment and delegation of key responsibilities. The identification of potential candidates, spanning various Indian Group Companies (IGCs), involved active participation from Managing Directors and a meticulous nomination and selection process. Shortlisted candidates, meeting stringent criteria, embarked on a roadmap designed for implementation over the next 2 to 5 years.

Central to this visionary approach was succession planning for key roles, ensuring a seamless transition of responsibilities. The delineation of roles and responsibilities for decision-making areas became a cornerstone, contributing to a more agile and responsive organizational structure. Notably, the promotion of outstanding members to Global Grade positions underlined DENSO's commitment to recognizing and rewarding excellence.

The move towards localization of management has been pivotal in enabling DENSO to navigate the complexities of the rapidly evolving Indian market. By empowering local talent, DENSO has harnessed the unique strengths and insights of its Indian workforce, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. This chapter not only unfolds DENSO's strategic shift towards local talent but also underscores its commitment to continual development and empowerment. Recognizing that the success of the company is intricately tied to the talent, dedication, and passion of its employees, DENSO pledges to grow and thrive in the Indian market by embracing diversity and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation.