Ever wondered what it is like to work at Amazon? Curious about the type of people who thrive in one of the world’s most customer-centric companies?
In this month’s profile we get to hear from employee number two in Amazon Pay’s Japan office, and one of our veteran marketers, Mamiyo Hosokawa. In a region where Amazon Pay continues to grow quickly, Mamiyo emobodies what it is to be an Amazonian as she speaks about her favourite parts of the companies’ culture, why she works for Amazon Pay, and a little bit more about her life.
When did you join Amazon and how would you describe your role?
I joined Amazon in September 2014 as a marketing manager at Amazon Pay. I was the second person within the Japanese region supporting Amazon Pay, even before Amazon Pay launched in Japan during May 2015. Since then I have worked within the Amazon Pay team for more than four years. I am dedicated to B2B marketing acquisition and part of my focus is increasing awareness about Amazon Pay in Japan. My role is very exciting, I really enjoy working at Amazon Pay.
What does a typical day look like for you?
When I come to the office, I check key metrics every day. Depending on the result, I may take action immediately. Midway through the day, I’ll have meetings with internal or external stakeholders. A typical day can vary as twice a month I operate events, conducting interviews with merchants and capture there positive results through Amazon Pay. Hearing about the success of our merchants always leaves me inspired and excited.
What do you enjoy about the Amazon culture? Or what’s one thing you’ve learned since your time at Amazon?
I like the spirit of Day 1 culture at Amazon. I always keep in mind that it’s “still Day 1”. “Customer Obsession” is also one of the most important cultural guides for me at work.
Speaking of Customer Obsession, what is another one of your favourite Amazon leadership principles (LP)?
“Bias for Action” is my favourite LP. Amazon Pay business in Japan is growing so fast and we have faced unexpected situations many times. I take actions according to what is happening now. “Learn and Be Curious” is my second favourite. I like learning something new and trying to utilise learnings for my work.
What is one of the reasons you enjoy working at Amazon Pay?
I believe that Amazon Pay enables a merchants’ business to grow faster. This point is one of the most important value proposition of Amazon Pay. This is why I work at Amazon Pay. Only 4 years passed since Amazon Pay launched in Japan. I enjoy growing awareness about our service and connecting merchants to Amazon Pay in Japan.
How does Amazon support your career goals?
Amazon provides various training to help us become more proficient, helping us enhance specific skills like marketing, and offering opportunities to think about our future careers.
Is there a “perk” to your job that might surprise people?
I enjoy taking on initiatives nobody has done before. Sometimes it can be challenging to break new ground, but I also enjoy the new challenges that come every day. I am not afraid of failure, as I’m always learning from what I’ve done, before moving on to the next challenge.
What are some of your passions outside of work? What are you most excited about outside of work?
I am a certified yoga instructor. Amazon Japan has an official yoga club and I enjoy doing and teaching yoga every week. Yoga keeps my body and mind healthy and peaceful.
What’s your super power or something about you most people at work may not be aware of (secret talent, hobby, aspiration, etc.)?
I love to stay with my family in my hometown, surrounded by the beauty of nature. I can relax by taking in the fresh air and enjoying some locally harvested vegetables and fruits.
If you had a personal motto, what would it be?
“Be yourself” is my motto. I believe that I live my life as who I am. Working at Amazon is a part of my real life.
Any thoughts for someone considering a career at Amazon?
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit, you may enjoy working at Amazon Pay. I look forward to working with you at Amazon!
Learn more about working at Amazon Pay through our career site.