CAREER
My journey to Japan began amidst the chaos of the 2008 Global Financial Crisis. As a young banker, I witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of the economic downturn. The once-booming financial industry was reeling, and job security seemed like a distant memory. Driven by a desire for new opportunities and a fascination with Japanese culture, I decided to explore the job market in Japan.
However, the global crisis had cast a long shadow, and finding a finance position proved challenging. During this time of uncertainty, a chance encounter with a recruitment agency opened my eyes to the world of Human Resources. Intrigued by the prospect of helping others navigate their careers, I took a leap of faith and accepted a consulting role in HR. Initially, I saw this as a temporary measure, a way to gain valuable experience while waiting for the financial markets to stabilise.
Little did I know that this “temporary” move would become my true calling. I quickly discovered a deep passion for connecting talented individuals with fulfilling careers. The satisfaction of helping people find their dream jobs, coupled with the dynamic nature of the HR and staffing industry, captivated me.
Over the next decade, I immersed myself in the Japanese HR and staffing landscape. I honed my skills, built lasting relationships with clients and candidates, and rose through the ranks. This journey solidified my commitment to the HR and staffing/recruitment field and ultimately led me to establish my own recruitment firm.
BUSINESS
My company specialises in providing comprehensive staffing solutions to foreign capital firms in Japan. We understand the unique challenges these companies face in sourcing top-tier bilingual talent. Our expertise lies in identifying and placing highly skilled professionals in both permanent and temporary positions, catering to a wide range of needs, from urgent vacancies and interim roles to long-term staffing solutions.
We pride ourselves on our ability to connect companies with exceptional individuals who may be overlooked by traditional recruitment methods. We champion diversity and inclusion, actively seeking out talented professionals such as working mothers, single mothers, senior professionals with career gaps, and those re-entering the workforce after retirement.
Japan possesses a vast pool of untapped talent, and we are passionate about bridging the gap between these skilled individuals and companies seeking their expertise. Our extensive network, deep understanding of the local market, and long-standing relationships with clients and candidates enable us to provide effective and personalised staffing solutions.
VISION
I envision a Japan where employers embrace a more inclusive and holistic approach to hiring. A Japan where talent is recognised and valued regardless of age, gender, education, or career gaps. Just as love is blind, talent is blind, and we must strive to create a society where individuals are judged solely on their abilities and potential.
Furthermore, I believe in fostering a culture that embraces “freelancing” and “portfolio work.” Empowering individuals to become their own bosses, manage their careers with greater flexibility, and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance. This shift would not only benefit employees but also inject fresh perspectives and innovation into the Japanese workplace.
My commitment to this vision led me to launch a new venture, gojmade.com. This online platform is designed to facilitate and expedite connections between employers and job seekers, with a particular focus on freelance and contract-based work. We are investing significant resources in developing this platform and promoting a Japan where freelancing is recognised as a valuable and respected career path.
To further our mission, we are eager to connect with companies seeking specialised bilingual talent across all organisational functions. We have a strong pool of highly qualified candidates with expertise in back-office operations, middle-office support, and front-office client engagement. These individuals are ready to contribute their skills and experience to dynamic organisations on a project or contract basis.
We also welcome connections with talented individuals seeking meaningful work opportunities. Whether they are looking for flexible arrangements, a second job to supplement their income, or a chance to re-enter the workforce, we are dedicated to helping them find fulfilling roles that align with their skills and aspirations.
Jivago Matsuoka
PROFILE
I am an entrepreneur and investor driven by a passion for identifying and empowering undervalued talent. I believe in building successful businesses that prioritise people and promote a culture of inclusion. My mission is to connect exceptional individuals with fulfilling careers, helping them shine and reach their full potential.
Through my recruitment firm and my new venture, gojmade.com, I am committed to revolutionising the way people work in Japan. I envision a future where talent knows no bounds and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive in their chosen field.
Originally from Montreal, Quebec Canada
Bachelor of Commerce from the John Molson School of Business at Concordia University
▼ The Advisory Group
https://theadvisorygroup.co.jp/jp/
▼ gojimade.com
https://gojimade.com/
▼ Linkedin
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jivagomatsuoka/
