Date of publication: May 25, 2020

Gavin Dixon

Director: Global Perspectives

Date of birth: March 4, 1971

Hometown: Melbourne

Number of years in Japan (cumulative): 15 (as of May 2020)

Q1: What was your first encounter with Japan?

I first came to Japan in 1993 following a girlfriend from Melbourne and ended up, strangely, as a caddie for foreign players on the pro golf tour back in its heyday. The relationship didn't last, but my love affair with Japan certainly did.

Q2: Please state your motto in life and why you have chosen it.

“It’s never as hard as it seems.” I find this attitude valuable due to the fact that challenges invariably seem tougher before you try them compared to when you look back on them. Never truer than when starting a company in a foreign country. It doesn’t mean things will be easy, but certainly allows you to put things in perspective no matter how daunting a situation might seem.

Q3 : Over your career, what achievement are you the proudest of?

Creating Global Perspectives with my business partner Tove Kinooka and being able to adapt our business model toward helping our partner companies move to a more sustainable business footing by unlocking the potential of their staff. Also, seeing the changes in mindsets and behaviors as well as the exponential growth and output from our participants provides an immense amount of pride and satisfaction.

Q4 : What are your goals during your time in Japan, your current position or in life?

I have come to realize our greatest contribution is to help people develop professionally and personally in order to help those around them to transform. Considering our passion for sustainability at an individual, company, and societal level, knowing that we will have had an impact on many more people than we will ever meet or know is the defining goal of myself and Global Perspectives.

Q5 : What wisdom, advice or tips can you give to people living and working in Japan?

If you are unhappy in your current role, don’t be scared to consider starting your own business. If you surround yourself with the right people and support networks, it is as possible to start a new business here as it is in your own country. To be honest, if you find the right niche you will probably have less competition and more opportunity than at home. Finally, don't use the vagaries of the language or culture as an excuse not to try. You can get around all or any of these challenges with a little bit of patience and resilience.

Last updated: May 25, 2020