Featuring Industry Thought Leaders
Join us on the Makana Podcast, where we bring together recruitment experts, industry pioneers, and business leaders to discuss the evolving world of hiring, talent acquisition, and workforce trends. Hosted by Yan Sen Lu, Managing Director at Makana Partners, each episode delivers valuable insights to help recruiters, hiring managers, and job seekers stay ahead of the curve.
Naotake Momiyama – Group Country Head of HR, Japan at The Adecco Group | February 3, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Naotake Momiyama, Group Country Head of HR, Japan at The Adecco Group. A visionary HR leader, Naotake has dedicated his career to driving transformative change and delivering record-breaking results. We explore his diverse experience across industries, his approach to HR transformation, and the evolving role of HR in business strategy. Naotake shares his insights on the shift from operational HR to a strategic business function, the impact of AI and technology on workforce management, and the challenges and opportunities presented by Japan’s changing labor market. He also discusses the role of business partners and centers of excellence in modern HR structures, the importance of adaptability in leadership, and the future of work in an increasingly digital world. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on innovation, transformation, and the future of HR!
Hung Lee – Curator at Recruiting Brainfood | February 10, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Hung Lee, the mastermind behind Recruiting Brainfood. With over 15 years in the recruitment industry—spanning agency work, in-house talent leadership, and recruitment tech—Hung has built one of the most influential content hubs for talent acquisition professionals. We explore his journey from recruiter to thought leader, discussing the inspiration behind Recruiting Brainfood and how he curates content to keep insights fresh. Hung also shares his predictions for recruiting in 2025, diving into the impact of AI and automation on hiring processes, the role of localization and cultural nuances in recruitment, and the evolving landscape of global talent acquisition. Additionally, we examine the future of recruitment and collaboration, exploring how professionals can navigate industry changes while leveraging emerging trends.
Vincent Chi – APJ Talent Acquisition Manager at Adobe | January 31, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Vincent Chi, a seasoned talent acquisition leader at Adobe, to explore the evolving landscape of recruitment, AI-driven hiring, and the future of talent strategy. With a deep background in executive search and talent acquisition across the APJ region, Vincent shares insights on how Adobe has transformed from a PDF and Photoshop giant into an AI-powered creative solutions company. We discuss the role of AI in recruitment, how talent acquisition professionals can adapt and thrive in an increasingly automated industry, and the importance of data-driven storytelling in hiring decisions. Vincent also reflects on Adobe’s people-first culture, the company’s emphasis on being genuine, and how TA professionals can leverage technology while maintaining a human-centered approach. We also dive into global hiring trends, cross-functional recruitment initiatives, and the balance between AI automation and human expertise. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on the intersection of technology, talent, and transformation!
Jonathan Stewart – Global Head of Talent Acquisition Strategy, Operations and Analytics at Dialectica | February 4, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Jonathan Stewart, Global Head of Talent Acquisition at Dialectica, to explore the evolving landscape of recruitment, AI-driven hiring, and the global talent market. With experience at HSBC, BASF, Dyson, and Kantar, Jonathan shares insights on how talent acquisition has transformed beyond sourcing to encompass data analysis, employer branding, and stakeholder management, emphasizing the growing importance of AI while maintaining the human touch. He discusses global hiring trends, including offshoring, cost optimization, and demographic shifts, particularly in Japan and Asia, and highlights how skills like resilience, empathy, and negotiation are becoming more valuable than technical expertise. Addressing job insecurity in an AI-driven world, he reflects on the changing value of MBAs, the need for lifelong learning, and how companies can integrate internal mobility, reskilling, and external hiring for a more unified talent strategy. Offering a wealth of experience, Jonathan provides guidance for TA professionals looking to stay relevant as technology reshapes the future of work.
Jay Minns – Talent Acquisition Partner at Cathay Pacific | February 12, 2025
In this episode, we sit down with Jay Minns, a seasoned talent acquisition expert with over 15 years of experience spanning executive search, in-house talent leadership, and recruitment technology. Jay shares insights on the evolving role of AI in HR, breaking down the reality versus the hype and discussing how automation is reshaping skills-based hiring and workforce planning. We explore the challenges of digital transformation, particularly in traditional workplaces, and how HR professionals can strategically navigate this shift while maintaining a human-centered approach. Jay also highlights the demographic challenges facing global talent acquisition, particularly in Japan and other aging economies, and how companies can rethink their hiring strategies in response. Additionally, we discuss the future of employer branding, the importance of authenticity in an AI-driven world, and how HR leaders can position themselves to drive meaningful change.
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