09/08/2025
When Japan Airlines faced a severe financial crisis in the late 2000s, CEO Haruka Nishimatsu made choices that set a global standard for humble, ethical leadership.
Instead of resorting to mass layoffs or preserving his own privileges, Nishimatsu cut his own salary to less than $90,000 a year lower than what many of his pilots earned. He didnât just stop at pay cuts; he gave up every CEO perk, wore off-the-rack suits, rode public transportation to work, and ate in the staff cafeteria alongside his employees.
These actions werenât just symbolic they were a daily, visible commitment to sharing in the sacrifices he asked of his team. In a world where corporate greed often dominates headlines, Nishimatsuâs people-first approach boosted company morale, earned deep respect, and helped guide Japan Airlines through turbulence. His story stands as a testament that true leadership is measured by empathy, integrity, and the willingness to serve others not just by profit margins.
