Roland DG Hosts “The Day 2025”

10/17/2024　Corporate Activities

Roland DG held its annual internal company-wide event, “The Day 2025,” at Sala Music Hall near its headquarters on September 30, 2024. The event marked the fifth year of reflecting on the current fiscal year and presenting management policies for the next year, with all employees boosting their morale for the upcoming year.
Click here for the highlight of last year’s event

A special occasion once a year

In the world of surfing, “The Day” refers to the annual arrival of the largest wave. Roland DG holds this event annually as a special occasion for employees to reflect on themselves and the company. This year, following the completion of the management buyout (MBO) in May, the event provided an opportunity for a fresh start. About 50 participants from overseas subsidiaries joined employees at the headquarters, with a satellite broadcast extending the occasion to other locations around the world. Employees everywhere listened attentively.

President Tanabe emphasizes “Unleash”

The event began with a presentation by President Tanabe, titled “Unleash to Accelerate.” Tanabe reviewed the activities and achievements of the current fiscal year and outlined the management policies for the next fiscal year. Reflecting on the MBO concluded in May, Tanabe emphasized how going private has increased the company’s flexibility, saying, “Let’s make possible what was not possible before.” Tanabe concluded by asking employees what they want to “unleash,” calling for a shift in mindset.

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  President Tanabe outlined future policies.

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  Outside Director Brian K. Heywood expressed his expectations for Roland DG’s growth.

Next, Outside Director Brian K. Heywood took the stage. Brian projected the kanji character for “柵” (barriers) on the screen, explaining that while it once referred to something that prevented disasters, it has now come to symbolize obstacles to change. Brian emphasized the importance of eliminating preconceived notions and biases. He concluded his presentation by expressing his desire to turn Roland DG from a “Good company into a Great company.”

“Ask Brian” segment

In the latter half of the event, there was a Q&A session where Brian answered questions submitted by employees beforehand, ranging from personal to management-related topics. The session was conducted in a relaxed atmosphere, with Brian and President Tanabe sitting together on stage for a casual conversation. One memorable moment occurred when Tanabe revealed a surprising side of Brian, sharing how despite usually speaking standard Japanese, Brian’s Kansai (the western part of Japan) dialect emerges during heated board discussions due to his time spent living in Osaka after arriving in Japan.

Brian also responded seriously to other questions, such as “Why did you invest in our company?” and “What are your expectations for us?”

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  President Tanabe (left) and Outside Director Brian K. Heywood (right)

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  The Q&A session took place in a relaxed atmosphere.

Renewed determination

The event concluded with the recognition of employees celebrating 20 years of service. The honored employees received certificates and words of encouragement from President Tanabe.

This year’s “The Day” once again served as a special occasion that clearly defined Roland DG’s company purpose and deepened the understanding of the challenges and growth issues within the group. With many participants from overseas, the event also provided an opportunity to strengthen global collaboration. Each employee renewed their determination to “unleash” various possibilities, moving forward toward common goals.

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  Receiving long-term service recognition

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  Employees from both domestic and overseas group companies gathered in the hall.