When Japan Airlines slashed employee pay in 2009, CEO Haruka Nishimatsu cut his own salary to about $90,000, rode the city bus to work, ate in the staff cafeteria and removed his office walls so employees could walk in

During a 2009 financial crisis, Japan Airlines CEO Haruka Nishimatsu significantly reduced his salary. He commuted via public transport and ate in the employee cafeteria, sharing the burden. Nishimatsu removed office walls to foster open communication and accessibility with staff. His actions demonstrated accountability and a philosophy of shared sacrifice during hardship. This humble leadership approach left a lasting impact on employee morale.