When Takahiro Mogi, a 32-year-old Japanese restaurateur, arrived in Dubai seven years ago, he embarked on a mission to not only create a network of authentic Japanese eateries but also to promote Kodawari, a lifestyle centered around the 'pursuit of perfection.' Mogi explained to Khaleej Times that Kodawari is a fundamental part of Japanese culture and philosophy, influencing every facet of life, including work, personal goals, self-improvement, and social interactions.
For Mogi, the pursuit of perfection extends beyond delivering authentic Japanese cuisine; it also involves enhancing human resource development. He emphasizes that his restaurants not only offer top-notch dining experiences but also prioritize employee empowerment and well-being through ongoing education. Mogi, originally from Hachiōji in Tokyo, highlights that a restaurant's success in achieving high customer satisfaction is directly linked to employee satisfaction, as they are the frontline representatives.
Mogi manages over 200 staff across his establishments in Dubai, including Mogi-ya, Fujiya, Kimura-ya, and Hisaya restaurants. His company collaborates with various educational institutions to provide free courses in culinary arts, project management, accounting, business operations, human resource management, and other fields like photography and social media marketing. Mogi asserts that this commitment to continuous improvement and excellence is central to Kodawari, going beyond mere task completion to enhance work quality and acquire new skills.
He underscores that employee happiness is crucial for customer satisfaction, believing that enhancing employee abilities strengthens the company's core. Mogi, who began his career at 16, views his restaurants as not just workplaces but as platforms for career growth and advancement. Several employees, like Filipino chefs Gary Pangilinan and Noah Jay Cantuia, have advanced their culinary skills through the company's educational programs. Other staff members, including Cielo Ann Luboton and sisters Angelica and Janica, are pursuing diverse courses that prepare them for future roles or entrepreneurial ventures.
Mogi is optimistic that his approach will foster greater dedication among his staff and inspire them to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, whether in the UAE or their home countries. He is also willing to invest in their business ideas, encouraging them to set high standards and continuously strive for excellence in their careers and ventures.
