Managing cultural diversity in an international company – A case study of a Japanese company operating in Finland

Abstract

This bachelor’s thesis examines how cultural diversity can be identified and managed in an international company. The study uses a case study approach, focusing on a Japanese company that operates in Finland.

The main focus of the research is on the case study company’s Finnish site. By interviewing employees working at this location, the study explores the opportunities and challenges that international business has introduced to the company’s operations. The research takes a solution-oriented approach and presents solutions that the company has applied to overcome the identified challenges. These examples offer a positive and practical model for managing changes in international and intercultural business environments.

In addition, the study aims to highlight the factors that influence the location decisions of international companies. Based on the findings from the case study, a clear connection was found between local positive attitudes toward international business and the company’s comfort and success in establishing operations in the selected location.