In my previous job, I have been involved in structural design for 34 years at a major construction company. At age of 58, almost reaching the retirement age, I began thinking about the life after 60. There were number of ways, including re-employment and secondment to an affiliated company. However, all paths were forced into commissioned treatment or salary cuts. I had the option of work till the mandatory retirement age and start a new job. But it was not my desire to proceed once the retirement age has reached, so I decided to change jobs at the age of 58.
I received an offer from Fukuda and Partners. I was satisfied that I could work until the age of 65 as a regular employee, and maintain my salary. In addition, unlike the design department of the general construction company, I felt that working closer with the customer was also attractive, and decided to join F&P.
At first, I was required to be constantly aware of our services to our customers, and I was bewildered but now, I feel that is normal matter of customer service. As a design supervisor, my past experience working at a general contractor is also very helpful in communicating with the contractors.