Are Japanese Companies Too Inflexible When They Hire?
Are Japanese companies missing out on top talent? Recruitment expert David Swan gives his view on how strict cultural fit and the seishain system create rigid hiring practices.
David Swan is a Tokyo-based business leader with over 25 years of experience in Japan, including 16 years with Robert Walters, where he served as Managing Director of Japan and Korea from 2009 to 2018. During his tenure, he oversaw the significant expansion of the firm’s operations across both markets, establishing Japan as its largest business globally. He now works with selected organisations in advisory capacities, drawing on his extensive experience in recruitment, leadership and the Japanese business environment.