Digital Transformation Demands A Change Of Mentality

Noriko Rzonca, Chief Digital Officer, Cosmo Energy Holdings

Noriko Rzonca, Chief Digital Officer, Cosmo Energy Holdings

Noriko Rzonca holds a Ph.D. in Psychology. Having worked at financial companies in both the U.S. and Japan in the fields of statistical pricing, customer segmentation, and P/L forecasting, she currently serves as the Chief Digital Officer at Cosmo Energy Holdings.In this role,she is responsible for propelling the company’s DX (Digital Transformation) strategy. Prior to joining Cosmo Energy, Noriko worked at a leading online Japanese bank for four years from 2017, where she headed branding, CX design, and DX strategy, including data analytics and global services strategy.

Known as a game changer within the financial services industry and having spearheaded her former company’s English online banking service, Noriko is committed to promoting change management, cross-functional digital transformation, and the building of operational models leveraging data-driven, cross-organizational decision making.

Noriko has also served as a member of several government committees related to Japan’s AI strategy, including a committee to examine establishing a mathematics, data science and AI program accreditation for higher education institutions.

As a leader in digital marketing and e-commerce transformation, how do you see growing companies using the power of data, digital marketing, and e-commerce, and what are the challenges preventing companies from embarking on their own digital transformation journey?

Data has found its place in all areas of our lives. Data has also become fundamental to doing business, and it is very evident from the companies that have become successful because of efficient data usage.

Most European or Western countries have been successful in embarking on the digital journey. However, the unique thought pattern and culture of many Asian countries stand in the way of the digital revolution. The Asian culture has always put greater emphasis on conformity rather than trying to stand out from the rest. People are more comfortable following a set rules and patterns at work. This makes it harder for them to think outside the box and be game changers. It’s a challenge that needs to be addressed.

Even with respect to the education system, it often fails to foster creativity. As a result, most students end up as employees who excel at following directions. Though this is a great cultural aspect, it impedes the transformation people need, especially during something like adopting a new business model.

How has the pandemic accelerated digital transformation?

The pandemic has changed consumer behavior and forced companies to pursue digital transformation.The time for discussing the need for digitization is over as we don’t have any other option. Even though it has been hard for some businesses to adapt to the change, my advice to them would be to embrace it and accept the evolving business model. The positive impact of this transformation will happen faster if all employees of the organization are actively involved in the process.

Having been in this new position for over four months, I have been diligently trying to involve all members of my team and make the digital journey as enjoyable and rewarding as possible for each of them.

The pandemic has changed consumer behavior and forced companies to pursue digital transformation. The time for discussing the need for digitization is over as we don’t have any other option

What is your advice to fellow peers and leaders in the market?

In the present climate where many teams are working remotely, it is the duty of leaders to keep encouraging their teams and recognizing their efforts. It is very important to ensure your employees and colleagues are motivated, and the best way to do it is to ensure the workplace is fun and that everyone hasaccess to digital tools and resources that facilitate smooth communication and support this new way of working.

It is also crucial to be aware of the changes around us. While conceptual studying is very important, there are things that cannot be learned from a book. Today, learning can happen through any media, and the smartest way to go about it is to utilize the online educational resources available to you to stay up to date and ahead of the curve.