JUCHHEIM: WHO TO CHOOSE AS A SUCCESSOR?

Takeshi has to choose between Hideo and Takao but before he chooses any one, he needs
to project the impact of his decision on the company. Therefore, it is imperative for him
to weigh the two options and go forward with his best move.

OPTION 1: Choose Hideo

Hideo was closely associated with the company for more than a decade
He had justified his position with his work as an executive director
He understood the sense of urgency and thus started giving more time to overseas
projects; he duly understood that this was excruciatingly important for survival of
Juchheim
Hideo had little experience overseas
Hideo was the rightful heir as per Japanese tradition

OPTION 2: Choose Takao

Takao was never associated with the company

He was yet to prove his mettle as a leader in the business world
Takao never took personal interest in the company, largely because he never
thought he would be considered for the job
Takao had exposure to overseas countries and experience in working with
Mitsubishi Corporation
Takao might have an outsiders view and out of the box thinking because of his
stint in management schools
Takao was not the rightful heir as per Japanese tradition

Just like Takeshi, I am inclined towards letting Hideo lead the company and let Takao
never get involved in Juchheim business but the future of Juchheim business lies in the
hands of the strategy that will be opted today.
Takeshi needs to let go the tradition and choose the future of his company over it because
if the company fails then tradition will not bail him out. He should call Takao and let him
work under Hideo for overseas projects whereas he should allow Hideo to concentrate on
domestic market. He should also keep in mind that he should head the company for some
time after Takao joins so that initial hiccups could be dealt with and no major conflict
arises with his decision to digress from tradition.