Shotaro Watanabe
Career Background
At my previous job, I was part of a cross-functional organization focused on web frontend at Recruit Co., Ltd. While serving concurrently in various business units, I mainly led the launch of new services. The web frontend team was quite well-known in the industry, and being surrounded by highly skilled people allowed me to grow significantly as an engineer. I also had opportunities to collaborate with Google to test unreleased Chrome and web technologies, making it a period where I was deeply passionate about the future of web technology.
Before that, I started my career at CyberAgent, Inc. as a new graduate. I was assigned to group companies where I developed a wide range of services including games, SaaS, and advertising. When I was at Cygames, I learned the technical skills to develop high-load, large-scale systems and the commitment to creating the best content. Granblue Fantasy, a game we developed with the ambition of pushing browser limits, was one I worked on from its launch phase and remains very close to my heart.
Why I Joined Turing
When Turing was developing EVs, CEO Issei posted on Twitter looking for someone to build a Tesla-like infotainment system, and I sent a DM in response. Having been a software engineer for over 10 years with confidence in GUI development across various environments, and happening to own a Tesla Model 3, were the reasons I reached out.
What I Do
As a Group Manager, I lead teams in the development division. My group is responsible for vehicle and embedded systems development.
I manage my teams, making decisions on development direction and aligning with the executive team.
What Makes My Work Rewarding
The most rewarding aspect is being immersed in work among exceptionally talented people from various fields. I have had opportunities to work surrounded by excellent people before, but the concentration of talent at Turing is extraordinary.
When talented people come together, the company can advance significantly depending on leadership. Having been here since the founding, I am now in a phase where I am actually happy that there are increasingly more things I do not know. The company has grown far beyond what I could have imagined.
About the Work Environment at Turing
- You can do software development near the vehicles in an office with a lab-like atmosphere
- Engineers across every layer belong to the software domain
- There is pressure to eliminate heavy processes and rules as much as possible when getting work done
Who Thrives at Turing
- People who can move forward even when things are highly abstract
- People who are adaptable to change
For Those Considering Turing
I want to work with people who are determined to achieve fully autonomous driving and want to be at Turing when it succeeds. Since Turing is still an early-stage company, I think it is important not to focus too narrowly on individual technologies. That said, self-fulfillment is also important, so I think it would be great to align the company’s direction with individual aspirations in a good way.
My Car
BMW M440i xDrive Gran Coupe
I was looking for a gasoline sedan to replace my Tesla Model 3, and the M440i’s engine sound sealed the deal. The 3L inline 6-cylinder turbo is the best. Also, I have unexpectedly grown fond of the large kidney grille.
Cars I’d Like to Drive
In the near future, a BMW M3. My current M440i is a slight compromise. If money were no object, my ultimate goals are the Lamborghini Huracan Sterrato and Porsche 911 Dakar. I love the style of super sports cars with raised ride height.
