Head of Talent Acquisition

Makana Partners ·www.makanapartners.com

Location Tokyo, 13, JP
Type Full time
Level Director
Source Shazamme
Human Resources
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A fast-growing AI startup in Tokyo is seeking a seasoned and forward-thinking Head of Talent Acquisition to lead its strategic recruitment efforts. As the company plans to more than double its team from 130 to 300 employees by March 2026, this is a pivotal leadership opportunity to shape hiring operations, particularly for engineering and global talent. The position is based in Shinjuku, Tokyo, and will report directly to the executive leadership.


About the Role

As the Head of Talent Acquisition, you will play a central role in scaling the organization’s workforce in alignment with its growth trajectory and vision to become a leading AI innovator in Japan and globally. You’ll be responsible for building scalable, modern recruitment systems and cultivating strong employer branding to attract top-tier local and international talent.


Responsibilities


Strategic Hiring Leadership

  • Design and implement end-to-end hiring strategies across engineering, business, and corporate functions
  • Partner with internal stakeholders to align hiring with broader company objectives
  • Drive recruitment initiatives that support rapid team expansion

Global and Executive Recruitment

  • Lead sourcing and hiring for senior leadership and specialized international roles
  • Establish a global talent network through events, partnerships, and strategic outreach

Process Optimization

  • Standardize recruitment processes and introduce multilingual, globally-compatible workflows
  • Implement data-driven tools to monitor hiring performance and continuously improve efficiency

Employer Branding

  • Develop and execute recruitment marketing strategies, including events, digital content, and ambassador programs
  • Enhance the company’s public visibility and reputation as an employer of choice

Innovative Recruitment Practices

  • Leverage cutting-edge technologies such as AI-powered assessments and VR interviews
  • Actively pursue passive candidates and utilize alternative talent pipelines


Requirements


deal Candidate Profile

Primary Target

  • Proven experience with:
  • Strategic hiring and budget oversight
  • Recruiting 10–20+ engineers annually
  • Mid to senior-level talent acquisition
  • Managing teams of 3+ full-time employees

Secondary Target

  • Demonstrated success in:
  • High-volume hiring (100+ roles/year) across multiple functions
  • Developer relations and employer branding
  • Leading teams of 5+ recruiters
  • Talent strategy and problem-solving


Preferred Qualifications

  • Business-level English proficiency
  • Background in global talent acquisition and retention



Why Apply

  • High-Impact Role: Build and lead the entire talent acquisition function from the ground up
  • Strategic Visibility: Work directly with executives in a company where talent is a top priority
  • Global Reach: Opportunity to engage with top international AI professionals
  • Innovation-Friendly Culture: Flexibility to experiment with new, cutting-edge recruitment approaches


Frequently asked questions

Who is hiring for the Head of Talent Acquisition role?
Makana Partners is hiring for the Head of Talent Acquisition position, a Shazamme client. Apply directly on the employer's career site.
Where is the Head of Talent Acquisition job located?
The Head of Talent Acquisition role with Makana Partners is based in Tokyo, JP.
Is the Head of Talent Acquisition role full-time or contract?
This is a full time position at Makana Partners.
What experience level is the Head of Talent Acquisition role?
The Head of Talent Acquisition position is aimed at director-level candidates.
How do I apply for the Head of Talent Acquisition role at Makana Partners?
Apply directly on Makana Partners's career page via the Apply button on this listing. ZammeJobs links straight through to the employer's ATS — no third-party form, no resume database.
Apply direct