Makana 2.0 · Issue 02 · December 2024
HR, Leadership & Technology Shaping Asia's Future
Makana 2.0, Issue 2: 7 pieces from the Makana Partners network.
In this issue
Issue 2 opens with a letter from the editor, Yan Sen Lu, on what has kept him motivated through 20 years in executive search. The features begin with an interview with Miho Takiguchi of Universal Studios Japan on organizational development, diversity and leadership, followed by Remi Padel on adapting business models to digitalization, AI and global challenges.
Loic Sar then draws strategic planning lessons from boxing coach Ben Davison. The Makana Partners News section introduces new team members Masayuki Koito and Koji Okano, an overview of APAC executive search market trends, and a list of recent placements.
Table of contents
- Letter from the Editorp. 5By Yan Sen Lu · Letter from the Editor
Yan Sen Lu explains what has kept him motivated through 20 years in executive search and recruitment: impact, lifelong learning, human connection and being a steward of trust.
- Building Inclusive Futures: Miho Takiguchi on Leadership, Organizational Development, and Diversitypp. 6–10By Miho Takiguchi · Interview
Miho Takiguchi of Universal Studios Japan discusses organizational development versus talent management, psychological safety, DE&I, hybrid leadership and why wellness will shape the future of OD.
- Adapting Business Models in the Age of Digitalization, AI, and Global Challengespp. 11–13By Remi Padel · Feature
Remi Padel argues that large companies must modernize decision-making with digital tools and AI, and that cultural understanding is essential to making transformation succeed in global organizations.
- Strategic Planning: How Boxing Champions Prepare for Successpp. 14–16By Loic Sar · Feature
Loic Sar draws on coach Ben Davison's work with Anthony Joshua to show how long-term vision, regular analysis, adaptability and execution apply to business planning.
- New Practitioners: Masayuki Koito and Koji Okano Join Makana Partnersp. 17By Makana Partners · News
Makana Partners welcomes Masayuki Koito as Director for Japan and Koji Okano as Principal Consultant for Japan, with their executive search and IT recruitment backgrounds.
- Market Trends: APAC Executive Searchp. 18By Makana Partners · Market Trends
An overview of the Asia-Pacific executive search market: demand for technology, sustainability and finance leaders, digital leadership roles, India's growth and a more candidate-driven market.
- Recent Placementsp. 18By Makana Partners · Placements
A list of twelve recent Makana Partners placements by role and industry, from country managers and HR directors to a designer and a frontend engineer.
Read the issue as printed
Swipe or use the arrows to turn the pages. Each page links to its article, which is also available as plain text with the key points.
Prefer the original? Open the Canva edition →
Editor and contributors
Editor-in-Chief: Yan Sen Lu
Miho Takiguchi
Miho Takiguchi is a seasoned leader in organizational development and diversity with over 20 years of HR experience. Currently the Director of Organization Development at Universal Studios Japan, she previously held senior roles at AstraZeneca and AIG, specializing in talent management, DE&I initiatives, and leadership coaching. Her extensive background includes driving strategic HR transformations across Japan and globally, with a focus on fostering inclusive and high-performing teams.
Remi Padel
With over 25 years at Autoliv, Remi Padel has excelled in global business leadership, sales, and strategy. As Global Business Director for Seatbelts & Steering Wheels, he drives growth and leads cross-functional initiatives around the world. With 12 years in Japan, Remi’s deep intercultural understanding strengthens his ability to navigate global markets and foster collaboration. He developed leadership and negotiation skills that propelled him to roles like Account Manager for Nissan and Business Development Manager for Asia, where he excelled in B2B sales, key account management, and demand forecasting. As a thought leader, Remi offers valuable insights into navigating digitalization, AI, and global challenges.
Loic Sar
Loic is a Manager of Launching Management for Electric Mobility at Daimler Truck Asia, specializing in the production and project management of electric vehicles, particularly light- to heavy-duty trucks and buses. With over 10 years at Daimler, and experience with global logistics planning, multi-project leadership, and team building, his most current role has been driving the electric mobility transformation initiatives at Daimler Trucks Asia. Loic's foundations are in Supply Chain Planning with a background in consultancy and extensive experience in logistics strategy. With a passion for sports, leadership, and business, he also publishes a leadership newsletter.
