Never Give Up: How Shoichi Sunaga Leads with Grit, Grace & Global Experience

From the Philippines to Vietnam, and now Singapore — Shoichi Sunaga’s leadership journey is a story of humility, perseverance, and leadership across cultures.

✈️ From Rookie Recruitment Adviser to Regional Leader

Shoichi Sunaga joined Reeracoen in February 2019, beginning his career as a Recruitment Adviser in the Philippines with limited English skills.

“I struggled with English at first, but the Career Adviser team supported me. I learned that perseverance matters more than language.”

Despite the language barrier, he achieved over 60 placements in seven months. When he did not review his visa, Sunaga-san moved to Singapore.

His early days in Singapore were challenging, but persistence paid off:

“From the second year, many clients I visited in my first year started reaching out to me. That experience taught me the true meaning and importance of never giving up.”

He thrived during the COVID-19 period, winning MVP as a Recruitment Adviser and helping train members as an Assistant Manager.

Later, he was appointed Branch Manager in Hanoi, leading a small office as the only Japanese staff. In late 2023, he returned to Singapore to head the branch.

🏅 A Track Record of Quiet Excellence

Sunaga-san has received recognition across multiple countries:

• Best Recruitment Adviser – Singapore
• New Client Development Award – Singapore (2 years)
• Best Manager – Vietnam
• Monthly MVP – Vietnam (Recruitment Adviser)

But when asked about his proudest achievement, he offered a humble reflection:

“Honestly, I don’t feel I have achievements I can proudly call a success as a leader.
But when I left Hanoi, some people cried, gave me gifts, and thanked me.
That made me realise — maybe the real impact of leadership is only seen when you leave an environment.”

This moment of heartfelt farewell shows his leadership is measured not just in numbers, but in lasting relationships.

💡 Lessons from a Global Career

Sunaga-san’s career across Asia taught him that grit, personality, and sincerity matter more than technical skills:

“English is just a tool. True value lies in your personality, experience, and effort.”

Working in different cultures has given him deep appreciation for diversity and a commitment to continuous learning.

🤝 Leadership on the Front Lines

As Branch Manager, Sunaga-san remains deeply involved in client advisory work:

“Client needs and team challenges are on the front lines. Leaders should stay close to both.”

He also embraces collaboration:

“I used to keep everything to myself. Now, I consult others and share concerns to build trust.”

His leadership philosophy is clear:

“I want to be a leader who is cheerful, devoted to others, never losing a sense of urgency in the market, and always staying professional for the clients until the very end.”

🧭 Looking Ahead: Singapore 2025–2026

Under his leadership, Reeracoen Singapore aims to:

• Build a lean, profit-driven team
• Continue localisation and market fit
• Focus on high-value projects and outreach

“As HQ, we must lead by example in this fast-changing market.”

🎸 Fun Fact

Behind his leadership style, Sunaga-san is surprisingly shy. He relaxes after work by playing the guitar — a hobby that keeps him grounded.

🌟 Key Advice for Future Leaders

“Never give up, and never make excuses. Always propose, consult, and try things out without hesitation.”

🚀 Inspired by Sunaga-san’s Story?

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