urakoitsijana

Urakoitsijana is a term used in the context of Japanese business and corporate culture, specifically within the context of the zaibatsu, large conglomerates that dominated the Japanese economy in the 20th century. The term translates to "outsider" or "outsider manager" and refers to a manager or executive who is not a member of the founding family of the zaibatsu. These individuals were often hired from outside the company to manage and lead its various subsidiaries and divisions. The practice of hiring urakoitsijana was common in zaibatsu companies, which were typically family-owned and controlled, to bring in fresh perspectives, expertise, and to ensure the smooth operation of the company's diverse business interests. The urakoitsijana system was a key aspect of the zaibatsu's management structure, allowing for the delegation of responsibilities and the development of a more professional and hierarchical corporate culture. However, the system also faced criticism for potentially diluting the family's control over the company and for the lack of continuity in leadership. The term urakoitsijana is less commonly used today, as the zaibatsu system has largely been replaced by more modern corporate structures and management practices.