The “Professionals” series showcases talented experts who support PayPay Group’s operations.
We interviewed Yamasaki-san, the Senior Manager of the System Planning Department and System Development Department in the System Division at PayPay Securities. We asked about his job transition, memorable projects, and what he finds fulfilling.
Shinji Yamasaki
Senior Manager, System Planning Department & System Development Department, System Division, PayPay Securities
After completing my university degree, I began my career as a system engineer (SE). In my second year of employment, I transferred to a startup company specializing in the development of securities system packages. For 13 years, I was involved in the development of back-office systems for retail banking. Later, I engaged in the development of wholesale package systems at a system consulting firm. I then joined PayPay Securities in 2021.
Redefining the Future of Finance with a User-Friendly System
Tell us about your background and why you joined PayPay Securities
I started my career as a new graduate at a system engineering service company, where I developed IT knowledge as an engineer. Yet, I sensed that I wasn’t acquiring the specialized industry knowledge I desired. This prompted me to make a career shift to the securities industry. I had experience in stock trading, and I thought being a financial SE would bring added value. From there, I’ve been involved in the development of both retail financial back-office systems and the creation of package systems for wholesale purposes.
I joined PayPay Securities when the CEO at the time extended an invitation asking, “Would you be interested in working on the securities system as part of our new financial services centered around PayPay?” I had been using PayPay myself, and what struck me as particularly refreshing was its approach to creating a system that is user-friendly without being overly formal. Expanding the base for asset management holds social significance. I believed that creating something embraced by a broad audience within in an operating company would carry profound meaning, which is why I decided to join.
What is your team’s mission, and what are your responsibilities?
Our mission is to deliver a more user-centric service, safely and quickly.
Especially when conducting reviews with a user-first approach, we ask ourselves, “Is this truly optimal from the user’s point of view?” Rather than blindly following directions because “this is what the business team said,” it is important to think critically and roll out something we genuinely believe in and are satisfied with.
My responsibilities involve strengthening the organizational structure and development environment. The team faces a challenge in keeping pace with the rapid service expansion, so I’m focused on improving recruitment, establishing efficiency frameworks, and preparing for the next-generation architecture.
Secondly, I’m involved in system planning to bring new services to fruition. Thirdly, I oversee development, facilitate development projects, and perform reviews. Segmented systems can be inefficient, making it challenging to create synergies and enhance efficiency. Therefore, I’m currently involved in all projects. Nevertheless, there are constraints with this approach, so I’m considering creating a decentralized team.
It Is challenging and intriguing at the same time because there is no precedent
What projects particularly left an impression on you?
The PayPay Invest mini app project which launched in August 2022 was particularly memorable. Being the first domestic service to enable securities trading within a cashless payment app brought about technical and external challenges.
It was also my first experience in advancing with product development without having finalized business requirements due to negotiations with authorities. While the waterfall model may offer a safer approach, when venturing into something new, waiting for complete certainty isn’t an option, as progress would be too slow. So, we designed the system beginning with the most assured aspects and made every effort to minimize lead time.
We also paid close attention to UI/UX throughout the project, refining it until the final stages. When we encountered user- centric feedback in reviews, we actively considered incorporating them in.
What fuels your motivation and brings you a sense of fulfillment?
Transforming innovative ideas originating from the business side and being able to deliver them to the world is where I find motivation and fulfillment. While the finance industry is subject to numerous regulations, I get job satisfaction from the process of trial and error as we seek optimal solutions.
Also, the fast-paced and ever-changing environment brings a thrilling tension, which is also what makes it enjoyable (laughs).
What are the unique features of PayPay Securities’ system development?
The service itself is simple, so compared to comprehensive securities, the system is distinctive for its simplicity and limited focus. With the increasing user base and expanding services, we are considering transitioning to a forward-looking system. I believe this agile simplicity can be considered a strength compared to systems of other companies.
How would you describe the team’s atmosphere?
We’re grateful for the increasing number of members who actively contribute their thoughts. As an organization, we aim to cultivate a culture where every individual thinks and acts independently. Another aspect I highly regard is a sense of professional responsibility. We desire to work with those who never give up and continuously come up with creative solutions to reach our goals.
Despite the majority of our team working remotely, we do not experience inconvenience because we have the ability to see each other’s faces and communicate through platforms such as Zoom. I frequently initiate communication by simply asking, “Can we have a discussion now?” while working remotely. It’s all about choosing the suitable way of communication, whether it’s a discussion about system development or a chat, depending on the situation, without overcomplicating the telecommuting aspect.
I aim to be a dedicated professional who carefully considers user needs and consistently accomplishes tasks
What do you hope to accomplish in the future?
As a company, we aim to create a service that lowers the barrier to asset management, to the point where the first thing that comes to mind is to “Start your asset management with PayPay Securities.”
Securities trading is often associated with high-risk, speculative investments, but our vision is to transform it into an enjoyable and accessible form of asset management. I believe many have attempted investments, found it challenging, experienced losses, and gave up. With the simplicity and clarity of PayPay Securities, I believe we can reduce the number of users who quit quickly. It would be amazing to overturn the perception that asset management is difficult and intimidating, and instead contribute to enhancing financial literacy in Japan, ultimately creating a society where individuals can enjoy financial security in their retirement.
To realize that, from a system planning perspective, we first need to provide services quickly, leading the run-up to the launch alongside the business teams. In development, we must consider how to streamline, parallelize, and establish foundations. Development speed ultimately depends on design and architecture, so optimizing these aspects will allow us to provide timely systems to users. Above all, it’s crucial to remain committed to creating user-friendly systems.
What do you value in your work at PayPay?
Out of the PayPay 5 Senses, it would be “Be sincere to be professional.”
As a professional, I value not giving up until the end to accomplish my goals, and dedicating all my thoughts and energy. I consider it amateur to only do things as told. When reviewing, I not only check what’s written in the specifications but also delve into what’s not written and question whether it’s truly the best approach.
Lastly, do you have a message for our readers?
Due to the rapid pace of change, this workplace is ideal for those who can enjoy controlling their environment and goals, while involving others in their journey towards the goal.
PayPay Securities is still in its early stages and is about to enter a period of growth. We are now in the process of building the organization together. In the changing societal environment, we’re creating financial services tailored to our users. So, we want individuals who are up for the challenge of setting high goals to make “Start investing with PayPay Securities” the first thought in people’s minds!
Current job openings
*The recruitment status is current at the time of the interview.