Destination Tokyo

Ian has been a Cost Manager in Japan for the last year, how has he enjoyed it?

Q. What project did you work on and where was it?

A. I have been working on secondment for Lehman Brothers building out new office fit-outs for their Tokyo and Hong Kong Regional Offices.

Q. Was this your first overseas assignment?

A. No. Originally from and worked in the UK. Moved to Australia and then on to Japan.

Q. If not where else have you worked?

A. Sydney and Melbourne, Australia.

Q. Why did you decide to work overseas?

A. Experience and opportunities (both in terms of career and personal life).

Q. Did the experience live up to your expectations?

A. I've been here 11 months and so far yes.

Q. What were the biggest differences/surprises in the local construction industry?

A. Not really a surprise but the biggest difference is the business culture. Negotiations are very different from both Aus and UK.

Q. What did you learn from the experience?

A. I feel I have learnt a lot from both local and other expat workers which will make me a more rounded professional in the future. Specifically my problem solving will have increased because of the unique obstacles I have now come across and overcome.

Q. What did you miss most about home?

A. I miss friends and family during special times such as marriages and the birth of a child.

Q. What would you do differently next time?

A. Very little as I have been lucky, but I would recommend the maximum possible research before negotiating terms as what looks a good deal may appear less so when you arrive.

Q. Was there any one item you wish you had taken with you?

A. I shipped all my belongings so no (would recommend negotiating this into terms). When I move from the UK to Australia I missed personal items such as my music collection.

Q. What were the most memorable moments outside of work?

Managing to order food in Japanese was incredibly rewarding. Watching and helped carry a shrine around an area in Tokyo with a group of Japanese people

Q. Would you recommend an overseas assignment to colleagues in construction?

A. Upside is that you can work anywhere. I would recommend anyone to take advantage of this.

Q. What comments would you have about your experiences with Hill McGlynn?

A. Very professional service.