Newsroom|LIXIL

Inclusive Work Cultures For Balancing Family and Career Growth: Mariko Fukuda’s Career Journey

Written by LIXIL | Jan 29, 2026

D&I embedded across LIXIL—bringing subtitled commercials to life with a sense of purpose

At LIXIL, diversity and inclusion are woven into every aspect of the company. Working closely with colleagues who have hearing impairments made me acutely aware of the importance of subtitles. In 2022, we collaborated with partner companies to produce a subtitled commercial. As someone responsible for LIXIL’s marketing, bringing such initiatives to life feels like a personal mission. My colleagues and I often say, “There’s no other company where D&I is so naturally a part of the culture and everyday conversations.”

A workplace where you can be yourself—encouraging open expression and new challenges

I truly believe LIXIL embodies “A Home for Everyone,” for it is a place where people can work authentically. At LIXIL, we believe that each individual’s contributions are valuable for the company and help shape society. It  promotes independent and diverse ways of working, and helps us find support for our ideas, as well as for the challenges we face. This culture—where opinions can be openly shared and genuinely heard—is a constant source of motivation for me.

Leadership that listens to frontline voices to create a better workplace

I always feel grateful that LIXIL has an environment that makes it possible for me to balance work and childcare. The company systems and the people I work with support me in many ways. For example, a while ago, I shared some worries with an executive. They actively listened, raised the concerns with HR, and helped bring positive change. I truly feel that our leaders are serious about making our company a better workplace for all employees.

Transformative business training to help inspire personal growth

I was selected to participate in a short-term business school program, even as I was simultaneously engaged in childcare. It was an eye-opening experience for me, a chance to learn directly from some of Japan’s leading business executives. It helped me gain a clearer and more concrete understanding of management and business—areas that had previously felt abstract to me. I am grateful to be able to work at a company that invests in my growth, and I strive to apply the insights I have gained to my work.