Hi, I'm Yoshinori Nagai, an Account Manager at Qt Group, primarily supporting clients in the automotive industry. I grew up in Kuki City, Saitama Prefecture, and I spend most of my weekends outdoors—surfing, fishing, or playing music in a local festival band and rock group.
I also love to travel both in Japan and abroad. Lately, my favorite way to explore Japan is on road trips with my family, sleeping in the car, and discovering new places we’ve never been.
Joining Qt Group opened the door to a new industry for me, and it has gradually changed the way I approach my work. Today, I’d like to share a bit about my career path and what it’s like working at Qt Group.
A Sales Career Built on Relationships — and the Shift to Qt Group
I’ve been in sales my entire career. After graduating from university, I spent 13 years working in Japan’s manufacturing sector, handling components for clients in the home appliance and automotive industries. At the time, I was drawn to companies that had overseas operations but weren’t too large in scale. While I didn’t have a strong preference for a specific job type, I knew I enjoyed working with people more than being on the production side, so sales was a natural fit.
What I love about sales is the chance to have real conversations with customers and gain insight into their challenges and future goals. I travel a lot for work, and I always try to experience the local culture during my trips, especially through food. Visiting local restaurants not only enriches my own experience but also often serves as a great way to break the ice in business discussions with clients.
Of course, the frequent travel and scheduling can be physically demanding, but I find joy in discovering places I might not otherwise visit. Being on the move and making meaningful connections is what makes sales so rewarding.
Later, I worked for an Italian filter manufacturer and a Swiss simulation software company before joining Qt Group. I first heard about Qt Group through a recruitment agency, and I was intrigued by the opportunity to engage with such a diverse range of industries. My previous role was almost entirely focused on the automotive sector, so I was looking for a broader perspective, and Qt Group seemed like the perfect place to find it.
Embracing a Global Culture
Working at companies headquartered in Italy, Switzerland, and now Finland has exposed me to a variety of corporate cultures. I feel that my experience working in different cultures and perspectives help me to have open-mindedness and accept diversities.
At Qt Group, which is headquartered in Finland, the pace feels more relaxed compared to my previous job, and the company strikes a great balance between flexibility and structure. There’s a refreshing openness to trying new things, rather than being bound by rigid rules.
Working as an Account Manager – and as Part of a Team
I now manage both existing and new accounts across various industries, including automotive, motorcycle, construction, agriculture, and industrial machinery. For existing clients, my goal is to expand their use of Qt products. For new ones, I focus on clearly communicating the value our technology can bring.
My role is to listen carefully to each customer’s business strategy and challenges, and to collaborate on finding the best-fit solution. One of Qt Group’s greatest strengths is the talented Solutions Engineering team I work with. I know I can rely on them for expert support whenever technical questions arise. Our company is full of highly specialized professionals I trust, and that gives me confidence in my day-to-day work.
At the same time, I see it as my job to lay the groundwork for success by preparing thoroughly and sharing information clearly, I help create a “good stage” where others on the team can shine.
The Joy of Working at Qt Group
Engaging with customers across different sectors has really broadened my own perspective. Even within the automotive field, I’ve discovered new ways of thinking and entirely different landscapes from what I’ve known. That variety is one of the most exciting things about working at Qt Group.
Being in the fast-evolving world of software, especially with regular exposure to cutting-edge technologies like AI, is also a huge plus. I thrive in environments where I can discover something new every day, so this role suits me well.
Another thing I appreciate is the flexibility of the working style. Taking time off is easy to coordinate, and I can fully enjoy my hobbies on weekends. Having the freedom to manage my own schedule is one of Qt Group’s biggest draws.
There’s also a clear and fair evaluation system in place, which keeps me motivated by showing how my efforts are recognized. Last year, I was fortunate to be selected for the Sales Club Trip in recognition of my performance, and I got to travel to Bali. On the free day, I hired a local surf guide and took on the waves—a great way to refresh and recharge outside of work.
Looking Ahead – and Welcoming Future Colleagues
Since joining Qt Group, I truly feel like my world has expanded.
With so many industries and technologies to explore, every day brings something new. The freedom to drive my own work has not only helped me grow as a sales professional but also strengthened my decision-making and overall business mindset.
If you’re thinking about joining Qt Group, here’s what I’d say: Stay open-minded and flexible. Don’t be held back by assumptions or fixed ideas. Focus on your goals, think independently, take ownership, and collaborate with your teammates. You don’t need to know everything on day one—if you have the right attitude, you’ll find your way forward.
Whether you want to enjoy your hobbies to the fullest or explore new industries and perspectives, Qt Group offers a dynamic and rewarding place to grow.
