Reinventing the Millennium

When it comes to the field of smartphones, no one in this conference room in Tokyo speaks with more weight than Fang Zhuo.

In other words, if he talks about his views on the future of smartphones in public, it will be spread in the media that day.

People like him acknowledge the limitations of history and reject what has been said...

The shareholder representatives have their own thoughts, the Sony executives are thoughtful, and Ryoji Nakahachi's teeth are almost broken. Mr. Fang, are you going to suddenly strike at such a juncture?

Ryoji Nakabachi vaguely remembered the man in front of him in Tokyo many years ago, but at that time, he was speaking out to help Stringer.

The old friend is still the same, what time is it today?

Nakaba Ryoji looked at Mr. Fang with a faint look.

Fang Zhuo had no mood swings. He looked around at everyone first, then looked calmly at Nakaba Ryoji, who was looking at him, and said openly: "I say this, Nakaba Ryoji may not be happy, but since Hoyle asked, I also Don’t hesitate to share your opinions.”

It’s not what I have to say, it’s BlackRock’s Hoyle who insists on asking.

If you have to ask, just tell me.

Fang Zhuo has a lot of experience in holding meetings and offending people in meetings.

Sony Ericsson mobile phone is a brand of cooperation between Sony and Ericsson, but it has always been operated by Sony. Stringer has the intention to buy back Ericsson's shares. If he had not stepped down early, the implementation might have been successful.

Ryoji Nakabachi tried to force a smile on his face, but failed. He tried to round out his words: "Today is all about Sony's future. It's all about discussions. How can I be unhappy?"

"That's good." Fang Zhuo said calmly, "In that case, let me say a few more words."

Nakabachi Ryoji resisted the urge to get up and rush over. Not only did he say it in New York before, but he didn't say it when he arrived in Tokyo last night, but he said it more at this time. If the discussion was on other occasions, he could also support the development of Sony mobile phones!

However, now in front of so many people, how can I change my words instantly...

Fang Zhuo ignored Zhongbo's mood and talked eloquently: "The current global mobile phone market is called the 'Three Royal Companies', Yike, Apple, and Samsung. Although this is a status display brought by product sales, but When we look at these three companies, they have gradually formed a real moat."

"Compared with many manufacturers, they are gaining ground in terms of system ecology, hardware cost and chip design."

"Take Yike as an example. We have been in-depth cooperation with Sharp in Japan on screens, and SCHOTT in Germany has also maintained a generation-to-generation advancement in glass materials. These have helped Yike mobile phones establish a good reputation among consumers. A different image.”

"As well as Sony, our cooperation on sensors can be regarded as a model of technical cooperation."

"In 2007, Yike and Apple were looking for first-class suppliers all over the world."

"More than four years have passed, and we have built a first-class supplier in the world."

Fang Zhuo could talk about this for a long time, but he will just say briefly: "Let's look at these three companies, and then look at Sony. When it comes to the industrial chain, Japan has complete manufacturers in all aspects. When it comes to mobile phone features, such as camera technology and CMOS sensors, Sony is not inferior, and is even ahead of many competitors. In terms of scientific research capabilities, are you inferior? They are not inferior either."

"Looking at the mobile phone product alone, Sony has a lot of room for improvement and can quickly improve it."

"I don't dare to say that it can definitely be compared with Yiko, Apple, and Samsung, but compared with other manufacturers, Sony can definitely position itself."

"Let's set a small goal, let's not say the top three in the world, but say the 'fourth top'. This is always a goal that can be looked forward to, right?"

Fang Zhuo helped propose the next-generation goal of Sony Ericsson mobile phones, Yusijia!

He pondered again for a moment and said: "As for the overall competitive situation, Yusanjia now has a certain cost advantage and brand value, but as the supply chain matures, it is hard to say how far it leads, not to mention that the first half of the competition is not over yet. , at the very least, the second half hasn’t started yet, so it’s considered a halftime break.”

"The global smartphone market still has huge growth. Sony Ericsson mobile phones are not starting from scratch. Everyone knows this brand and has good hardware and technical strength. I can only say that the stage is huge."

The stage is huge, it depends on how Sony performs.

After Fang Zhuo finished expressing his views, he raised his hand to drink tea.

The conference room was quite quiet.

how to say?

Is Mr. Fang too optimistic about Sony mobile phones?

Seeing that no one else spoke, Hoyle from BlackRock chose to ask the doubts in his heart: "Mr. Fang, Sony's acquisition of Ericsson's shares cost at least US$1 billion. Isn't it too much of a gamble at this time? "

Sony has talked with Ericsson before, and the acquisition may be about US$1.2 billion.

If the era of a new leader begins, there will be this kind of baggage right from the start...

"I'm just talking about my opinion." Fang Zhuo first put aside his responsibility and then said, "Sony's earliest product was a failed rice cooker. When Dai Ibuka and Akio Morita launched a successful tape recorder, they faced a hugely risky choice."

"Should we invest the money in a hugely expensive transistor project?"

Fang Zhuo shrugged and did not give an answer.

But everyone here knows the answer.

At that time, Ibuka and Morita Akio chose to make a bet after achieving temporary success, and then won the bet.

Any company always needs to take a gamble at a critical development node.

Hoyle felt convinced.

If smartphones are used as a part of Sony's recovery, Yoshihisa Ishida is obviously a better choice. Although Ryoharu Nakahachi has better status and qualifications, he has been sidelined in recent years, unlike Yoshihisa Ishida who has been doing things.

Sony needs people who can get things done now.

It was Nakahata Ryoji who broke the silence in the conference room again.

He said with emotion: "After listening to Mr. Fang's words, I felt like I was listening to Akio Morita's teachings in person, and I realized the inappropriateness of my ideas. Mr. Fang deserves to be the best CEO in the world. If you can, please give me some advice." Mr. Lai serves as chairman of our board of directors.”

Nakaba Ryoji publicly issued an earth-shattering invitation.

After an Englishman, he invited a Chinese to be the chairman of Sony's board of directors.

Although the CEO is now in charge of the company's direction, Sony's chairman still has symbolic significance.

Hoyle looked at Nakabachi Ryoji in shock.

Yoshida Ishida looked at Nakabachi Ryoji in shock.

Fang Zhuo also looked at Nakaba Ryoji in shock.

Hoyle suddenly thought that it would be okay. An outside director would serve as the chairman of the board. This was not uncommon in other companies. The board of directors was not involved in daily operations and only played a role at critical times.

Stringer, who both occupies the board of directors and serves as CEO, has forced Sony to suffer huge losses in recent years. If there are checks and balances between the two parties, it may be possible to avoid making the same mistake again.

"Hahaha, that's not necessary, so as not to cause more trouble." Fang Zhuo refused this invitation, which would cause an uproar and was destined to be rejected, and said with a smile, "Today is the moment for Sony to work together, and we must also trust the new company. At the moment of CEO, I still suggest that regardless of Nakahachi Ryoharu or Ishida Yoshihisa, whichever one is elected as CEO, whichever one will continue to serve as chairman."

Nakaba Ryoji sighed again: "Mr. Fang is really noble and upright."

Fang Zhuo picked up the teacup, still finding it amusing.

Two years ago, he might have tried mixing things up, but now he doesn't want to focus on it.

"As Mr. Fang said, I think we can make more attempts on the mobile smartphone side." Yoshida Ishida took over the words naturally, "Yike has a good cooperation with Sony. We have good cooperation in sensors and photography. A piece can make a difference, and it’s an opportunity that should be taken.”

He stood up directly after saying this and said loudly: "I am willing to follow the example of Dai Ibuka and Akio Morita, lead Sony to meet risks and challenges, and lead the company out of crisis!"

The voice was impassioned, but the applause that came after a while was a little awkward.

"Sony has the foundation to make mobile smartphones, including mobile phones, TVs, computers, tablets and PS. Sony can do this." Shuichi Sano, another shareholder representative from Sumitomo Mitsui, slowly gave his idea.

Sony has the foundation of these businesses, but it seems to have entered a strange circle in the past few years, but it cannot be said that Sony has no possibility of recovery.

Fang Zhuo continued to perform his duties: "The discussion on mobile smartphones is like this for the time being. Regarding Sony's reform, I believe everyone is also interested in hearing your thoughts."

This period can be regarded as a consensus. Sony needs to continue to make efforts to shoulder the burden of Ericsson.

Nakabachi and Ishida's discussions about reform became even more heated.

In addition to layoffs, this also involves reducing the burden on certain businesses and product lines.

Sony needs to sell off its assets to obtain funds, and these hard-earned funds naturally do not just sit on the books, they need to be mobilized to revitalize the business.

If Sony mobile phones are confirmed, there will be less funds available for other sectors.

Both Zhongbo and Ishida have their own supporters, representing different interests. This discussion will be even more intense than before.

Fang Zhuo listened with interest and naturally helped evaluate the quality.

However, reform on paper can always make sense, but if it is really decentralized to the lower levels, then I don’t know what it will look like.

Until 12:30 noon, everyone in the conference room felt thirsty and the nominations entered the final stage.

"In this case, Zhongbo, Ishida, you go sit outside first, and we will listen to each other's ideas." Fang Zhuo motioned to the two candidates to leave the conference room first.

Nakaba Ryoji was just about to get up when he suddenly said, "No need, Mr. Fang. If you have anything to say today, you can say it in person."

Fang Zhuo frowned.

Ishida Jiajiu didn't speak, he stood up and walked towards the door.

Fang Zhuo did not start the discussion and only looked at Nakabachi Ryoji who was still sitting in his seat.

Nakabachi Ryoji took a deep breath and already felt that his hope of ascending to the throne was gradually getting smaller.

He stood up, bowed, and said sincerely: "Please do everything for Sony's sake."

Fang Zhuo felt that these words were redundant. Who among the Gonggun gentlemen in this conference room was not here for Sony?

As soon as the two candidates left the stage, he directly asked the question, who is the more suitable CEO for Sony now?

Fang Zhuo did not talk about his own views, but only fulfilled his responsibilities as a foreign director and let everyone speak.

Generally speaking, it is true that Ishida Yoshihisa has more support now, but... everyone's tone is not sure. After all, compared to selecting a CEO, such time is still too little.

Half a day was like a surprise attack. Even with the warm-up, it was only a month since Stringer resigned.

Fang Zhuo didn't say anything, but he felt fine in his heart.

Back then, Nobuyuki Idei's election was a piece of cake. Later, Stringer took advantage of a crisis to rise to power. Now, isn't it the leader of the two families who has another childish figure who is both a child's play and a crisis?

"Well, in the afternoon we will finally submit the candidate for the new CEO to the shareholders' meeting. Now that everyone has had their say." Fang Zhuo glanced at the time. It was already one o'clock in the afternoon, and there were only two hours left before the shareholders' meeting. "Then It’s just a show of hands to see what the most honest ideas are.”

Nakabachi and Ishida left, leaving only 18 people in the conference room.

Fang Zhuo's proposal was tacitly approved.

Voting is more ceremonial and legal.

Fang Zhuo did not urge, and saw several people discussing with each other.

After a moment, he said slowly: "If you support Nakaba Ryoji, please raise your hands."

1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 5 people raised their hands without hesitation.

Ten seconds later, two more people raised their hands.

Fang Zhuo did not raise his hand and waited calmly. Then he saw another person raise his hand hesitantly.

There are 8 people in total, which cannot reach the number of votes to pass.

Fang Zhuo once again raised his hand in support of Ishida Jiajiu.

This time, just like before, 6 people raised their hands first, then 3 people raised their hands, and finally Yu Nakagawa, the executive vice president in charge of the semiconductor and electronic components business, cast the key vote of support.

10 votes support Ishida Yoshihisa, more than half.

"Mr. Fang, who do you support?" Hoyle noticed that Mr. Fang never raised his hand.

"My vote does not affect the voting results, so I will be considered as abstaining." Fang Zhuo said, "I am afraid that I will interfere with everyone's ideas. I came to Sony this time to firstly assume the responsibility of an outside director, and secondly not to let Sony down. Jinge’s trust, but I still have to cherish the feathers.”

He said seriously: "Sony's new CEO must be chosen by Sony's own person after all. This is good for everyone."

Hoyle gave a thumbs up: "Mr. Fang is right."

In addition to speaking only in familiar areas, he felt that Mr. Fang was very objective and fair today.

Fang Zhuo asked someone to call back Nakabachi Ryoji and Ishida Yoshihisa.

Obviously, the person who went out had informed these two of the results.

Fang Zhuo first notified the number of votes, and then performed his last duty: "The board of directors will nominate Shi at the extraordinary general meeting of shareholders this afternoon..."

"Slow down!" Ryoji Nakabachi suddenly spoke up, interrupting the announcement.

"Nakabo Ryoji, do you have any other opinions?" Fang Zhuo looked at the new Sony defeated dog.

"I..." Ryoji Nakahachi took a long breath, "Should we expand the scope of the meeting? The company is now in a great crisis. The new CEO is a choice related to Sony's future. We should be more cautious."

"With the testimony of all shareholder representatives and the participation of senior management of the group, you have also fully communicated with each other from Stringer's resignation to now." Fang Zhuo played the role of a calming needle and his tone became stern, "Are you still going to do this for me? Do you regret your selfishness at this last moment?"

He repeated what Nakabachi had just said: "Nakabachi Ryoji, please do everything for the sake of Sony!"

Ryoji Nakabachi met Mr. Fang's stern gaze, looked at the expressions in the conference room that generally showed disapproval of his continued efforts, and sighed: "I do everything for the sake of Sony."

Ishida Yoshihisa had relatively little experience in this kind of battle. He was relieved when Mr. Fang spoke out to maintain the order of the meeting. He raised his voice and said: "Who doesn't think about Sony? Me too!"

Ryoji Nakahachi did not look at his opponents, but at Sony's local shareholder representatives, including Shuichi Sano of Sumitomo Mitsui and others.

However, he didn't get the response he wanted.

All procedures are normal, and there will always be losers. Do we have to worry about it again once we lose?

Sano Shuichi reviewed the meeting process. If the key vote was cast by an outside director and was cast by President Fang, then it might be worth fighting again. The problem is that President Fang simply abstained from voting.

He shook his head slightly, clarifying his attitude.

After all, Ryoji Nakabachi didn't lift the table, and raised his head: "Okay, I hope Sony can get out of the predicament, and I hope Sony can become a brand respected by the world again."

Fang Zhuo completed the announcement: "The board of directors will nominate Ishida Yoshihisa as the new CEO at the extraordinary shareholders' meeting in the afternoon, and we will nominate a new board of directors list tomorrow."

The new board of directors will be built around the new CEO, and there will also be new appointments to the group's senior management.

Applause erupted in the conference room.

No matter what, after all, the successor was selected when the previous leader resigned.

Fang Zhuo stood up, shook hands with Ishida Jiajiu, and said with a smile: "I have heard the sound of Sony's recovery."

Yoshida Ishida maintained his respect. He saw with his own eyes Mr. Fang’s efforts to nominate him as CEO: “I will do my best to lead Sony into a new era, and I hope that Sony and Yike can continue to maintain close cooperation.”

Fang Zhuo smiled and did not continue the topic.

Seeing that Ryoji Nakahachi was discussing with the faction's senior officials in frustration and had no intention of coming over, he took a few steps to communicate with Sony's overseas shareholders.

From morning to afternoon, I didn't even have time to eat lunch.

Fang Zhuo, Hoyle and others had a simple meal, reached an objective and fair consensus, and soon ushered in the much-anticipated extraordinary shareholders' meeting.

This general meeting of shareholders lasts for three days.

Today is another announcement to accept the resignations of Stringer and Katsumi Ihara, announcing that Sony will carry out reforms, and also announcing a new CEO nomination.

Fang Zhuo did not speak much at the shareholders' meeting, but just watched the process of Ishida Yoshihisa accepting the shareholder vote.

There were no disturbances, and Nakaba Ryoji accepted the result of another failure.

It was a new experience and a familiar one. He saw the voting results of Ishida Yoshihisa becoming Sony CEO from his seat.

"I will work hard with everyone to make Sony regain its glory." Ishida Yoshihisa said.

There was warm applause in the conference hall, and everyone hoped that the new local CEO could reverse Sony's decline.

With the nomination of Sony's new CEO Yoshihisa Ishida, this news from the Uzumaki giant quickly hit the headlines, and along with it was another piece of gossip.

It is rumored that Fang Zhuo, an outside director of Sony, will serve as the new chairman of the board of directors.

Closed-door meetings are never closed enough. I don’t know who passed on the slightest bit of news, and then the media seized on this and made a big deal about it.

In the evening, Fang Zhuo met reporters outside the hotel and was asked about the news.

"Do you believe this?" he asked the reporter.

"If Mr. Fang serves as the chairman, that's not impossible." The reporter from TV Tokyo expressed his true feelings.

Mr. Fang + Ishida, this is the best president in the world, the head of Yike, the mysterious man, the doer, the authoritative + Ishida who will lead Sony's recovery together, no matter how you look at it.