Research Associate

At Makana Partners, we specialize in senior executive search within the Japanese market, offering our services on both a contingent and retained basis. As a key member of our team, you will play a critical role in delivering market intelligence and strategic insights to identify, source, and secure top talent for our clients. 

Job Summary:

The Research Associate is responsible for ensuring a strong candidate pipeline strategy for all Makana Partners’ clients through indirect and direct candidate sourcing, sourcing channel optimization, and proactive development of talent pools. 

To achieve personal targets and contribute to the overall success and positive image of Makana Partners through candidate and client interaction, demonstrating the highest level of ethical behavior and personal integrity with a positive and proactive attitude while working with colleagues. 

Sourcing and Recruitment:

• Sourcing Alignment: Collaborate with consultants to ensure sourcing activities align with client needs.
• Channel Identification: Determine optimal channels and strategies for sourcing candidates matching client requirements.
• Channel Optimization: Develop and optimize various sourcing channels to enhance talent pool quantity and quality.
• Effectiveness Monitoring: Measure and track the success of the strategic sourcing framework against predefined outcomes.
• Employee Value Proposition: Help clients define and develop a compelling employee value proposition and integrate it into the sourcing strategy.
• Media Utilization: Identify, secure, and use relevant media and communication channels for sourcing.

• Candidate Relationship Management: Develop and utilize strategies to build strong relationships with passive candidates.
• Sourcing Strategy Framework: Lead the creation of client sourcing strategies, including gathering competitive intelligence, developing targeted platforms, researching competing companies, and creating talent maps.
• Idea Generation: Partner with consultants to share information and generate ideas for effective searches.
• Customer Service: Provide responsive and proactive customer service through various communication channels.
• Support and Coaching: Offer support, advice, and coaching to colleagues.

Project and Task Management:

• Project Development: Assist in the development and execution of projects and assigned tasks.
• Administrative Duties: Perform administrative duties as needed.
• Performance Monitoring: Monitor and analyze the performance of various tasks using relevant tools
• SOP Projects: Participate in SOP projects and IT-related initiatives, such as website updates and maintenance.

CRM and Data Management:

• CRM Database Management: Manage and update data in our CRM database.
• Database Accuracy: Manage and update the company database, ensuring accuracy and efficiency.
• Data Management Support: Assist with data management tasks to support increased database activity.

Research and Reporting:

• Market Research: Conduct market research to identify trends and opportunities for growth.
• Report Preparation: Assist in the preparation of reports and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.

Qualifications and Experience 

• Native-level Japanese and business-level English proficiency.
• Bachelor’s degree in progress or completed.
• 3+ years of experience in full-cycle recruitment or sourcing, including developing and executing methodologies like market mapping, recruitment strategies, and Boolean searches.
• 3+ years of Applicant Tracking System experience.
• 3+ years of client-facing experience, including interacting with hiring managers throughout the recruitment process.
• Experience conducting competency/behavioral-based interviews.
• Familiarity with the Japanese talent market and its trends.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to handle multiple tasks collaboratively.
• Interest in IT, with a willingness to learn new technologies and processes.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and familiarity with social media platforms and database management.
• Strong analytical skills, business acumen, and a positive attitude.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Benefits:

• Hands-on experience in a professional environment.
• Mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals.
• Networking opportunities within the industry