The Woman Behind the Scenes of Red Wing Japan
Often, I find myself at the intersection of locations, languages, and cultures. Having lived and worked in both Japan and America, I appreciate being a bridge between people and cultures. I believe we can implement positive change in the world by sharing our ideas, values, and experiences with one another.
My journey with Red Wing Shoes reiterates this philosophy. It highlights the importance of working together, with the right people, to make a positive difference. It is an honor to be the first female head of Red Wing Japan. I’m also a working mother, which is incredibly rare for leaders in Japan. While I recognize this is breaking the mold for mothers and women here, I believe I am more than just a female leader. I’m passionate about the legacy we’re building, the sustainable practices we keep sacred, and leading with empathy and compassion. My mission is to inspire change in people for the better and I hope I can do this by sharing my story.
Exchanging Ideas and Cultures
In Japan, Red Wing boots are a prestigious American brand loved by Japanese consumers since 1970. Our long-time, top seller style is the iconic #8875 Oro Russet Leather Classic Moc. As the country manager for Red Wing Japan, I am fortunate to lead an amazing team dedicated to growing the brand. We operate six retail locations, and since October 2020, we opened up three new stores in Shinjuku (Tokyo), Shibuya (Tokyo), and Osaka LUCUA. But my journey with Red Wing Shoes starts much earlier than this.
In 2006, I joined Red Wing Shoe Company and within the first month, traveled to our headquarters in Red Wing, Minnesota. Fifteen years ago, I didn’t speak English as well, so I was worried about how I might be received. I quickly learned I had nothing to fear. Everyone was welcoming and approachable—I felt like I was part of the “Shoe family.” There was also a noticeable passion for the brand, the traditions behind our products, and for ideas on how to do the right thing.
From day one, I knew Red Wing Shoes was the right company for me. In the coming years, I moved up from customer service to quality assurance to the position I serve in today. Along the way, I developed my personal leadership style—empathetic but analytical, passionate but measured, considerate yet
strong. As with Red Wing Shoes, I also evolve my style. By working with many different people and being open to new ideas, we adapt and grow together.
Giving New Life to the Old
In Red Wing Japan, our growth is greatly attributed to implementing new ideas and taking cues from our American colleagues—something our corporate culture encourages. Through trips to our U.S.-based factories and conversations with our boot builders, I hold a deep appreciation for Red Wing Shoes’ traditions and long-standing heritage.
Our brand is rooted in sustainability, something I am personally passionate about. How we approach craftsmanship ensures no materials go to waste. Since 1905, we continue to preserve our production methods and the art of cobbling. Our products are of the highest quality; made to be worn and repaired over a lifetime.
In a world of fast fashion and changing trends, our boots are timeless.
In Japan, we’re scaling this message to cultivate a community that shares our value of sustainability. To me, a huge part of sustainability is giving new life to the old. If something is durable and can be repaired to its original quality, it will last a lifetime or beyond. When it comes to consumer products, especially clothing and footwear, being able to own and appreciate something for a lifetime truly embodies sustainable practices. I’m proud to be part of a company that does not compromise on this level of quality.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Women
Here in Red Wing Japan, it’s part of my mission to spotlight our history and timeless designs, to spread Red Wing Shoes’ values, and to practice sustainability. I also have a separate, yet equally important, mission. I hope to inspire a future generation of female leaders in Japan.
As a working mother in a leadership position, I want to demonstrate to my young daughter that you can have a family and a career you are passionate about. My favorite Red Wing boots are the Clara boots. When I lace them up, the boots give me a sense of confidence, making me feel strong and elegant at the same time. I hope to expand our women’s products in Japan so more women can feel the same confidence Red Wing Shoes gives to me.
Ultimately, the goal is for Red Wing Shoes to become a boundless brand in Japan. A brand that represents sustainability, inclusion, and quality that people of all genders can experience. I hope that people, whether they are a consumer or part of the Red Wing Shoes’ family, will be proud to be part of a company that makes such a meaningful difference in the world.