For the three existing businesses - the automotive goods business, the statutory safety inspections and maintenance business, and the automobile purchase and sales business - achieving quantitative targets by steadily implementing the medium-term business plan is an absolute must. Furthermore, it is imperative that the earnings base be enhanced by identifying and nurturing new businesses. As an outside director, I will offer cogent advice in both of these areas. In addition, I am aware that increasing ROE is one of the Company’s most pressing concerns, and I intend to make the most of my experience to assist with matters such as making the most effective use of equity and further enhancing corporate governance.

Given the downturn in domestic automobile sales, following developments such as last year’s consumption tax hike, the automobile aftercare market is now faced with extremely difficult conditions. The Company, therefore, will have to make decisions on matters that are increasingly difficult to sort out. As an outside director, I aim to participate in board discussions, in ways consistent with the ideas laid out in the Corporate Governance Code, and intend to contribute to the Company’s corporate value with decision-making that is transparent and fair.

Over many years, I have worked in and otherwise been an active contributor in the fields of corporate governance and investor relations. Applying the experience and knowledge I have developed as a result, I intend to help the Company achieve sustainable growth as infrastructure for motorized societies, and contribute to the continuation of sound dialogue with shareholders. I will do this by participating in board deliberations and engaging in discussions with management, while respecting the spirit of the Corporate Governance Code.