Nigel is International Business Development Manager for Douglas Nutrition.
Japanese Language Education
Secondary:
Studied four years at Christchurch Boys’ High School and spent final year of high school in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture.
Tertiary:
- Bachelor of Arts in Japanese and Mandarin, Canterbury University
- Post Graduate Diploma in Commerce, Lincoln University
- Master of Business Administration, Southern Cross University, Australia
Motivation to begin Japanese
Nigel had an interest in Asia from a young age, and a belief that learning Japanese would be good for a career in either tourism or trade were reasons why he chose to study Japanese. In addition he had heard the teacher of Japanese at Christchurch Boys’ High School had a good reputation.
Skills gained
Nigel believes learning Japanese has helped him appreciate and learn to respect and work with people from different cultures. He has had opportunities to work with a range of people and is aware that life is not about people being right and wrong but about different ways of thinking. He believes these are essential skills when working in the business world.
Current employment
Nigel’s first position was as Japan Area Manager for Tip Top Ice Cream, a position he held for four years. While based in Auckland, Nigel had regular contact with Japan and he believes this role accelerated his career in the export industry.
Nigel also worked for the Talley’s group for eight years including four years as Market Manager Asia for Open Country Dairy. This included introducing and growing their cheese and other dairy product sales to Japan.
He is currently the International Business Development Manager for Douglas Nutrition, based in Auckland where he has overall global sales and marketing responsibility for the business.
Time spent in Japan
As well as Nigel’s visits to Japan while still at school, he also worked on ski fields during his university holidays and for a year as an English teacher between degrees.
His business trips have seen him visit Japan approximately once every three months.