H.I.E.C expands Asia-Pacific presence with their fifth office and appointment for key leadership team.
TOKYO, 8th April 2025 –
H.I. Executive Consulting (H.I.E.C), a leading global executive search firm, is pleased to announce the opening of a new office in Tokyo, Japan, further strengthening its presence across the Asia-Pacific region. This strategic expansion includes the appointment of George Johnson as a Partner to lead the office, supported by his team, enhancing the firm’s ability to serve both global and local clients in this key market.
The expansion builds upon the company’s established presence in Hong Kong, Singapore, Shanghai and Sydney, reflecting H.I.E.C’s commitment to providing seamlessly connected global executive search services to clients across Technology and Software, Consumer, Financial Services & Real Assets, Industrial Technology & Energy Transition, Business & Professional Services and Private Equity throughout the Asia-Pacific region.
“Japan represents a critical market in our global growth strategy, and having carried out senior search assignments in Japan for over 10 years, establishing a dedicated office in Tokyo is a natural progression for our firm,” commented Philip Boyd, Global Managing Partner, H.I.E.C. “This expansion allows us to better serve our international clients looking to access the JAPAC market while providing deeper support to companies seeking global talent.”
“The addition of our Tokyo office completes our strategic footprint in Asia’s most significant economies,” added Managing Partner, Heather Grayson, Asia-Pacific, H.I.E.C. “With offices now in Shanghai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney and now Tokyo, we offer comprehensive coverage across the region, operating under our one global P&L and a unified resourcing model, which distinguishes us from traditional executive search firms.”
George Johnson joins as a Partner in our Global Technology and Software Practice and will lead our Tokyo office and support our wider APAC business as co-lead. He brings over 25 years of executive search experience across London, Tokyo, and other major Asia-Pacific markets. Prior to joining H.I.E.C, George was Founder and Managing Partner at a global boutique firm specialising in transformational talent for high-growth and disruptive companies, where he led the Technology & Digital Practice for the region. His sector expertise spans software, technology, consumer and digital markets, with a special focus on Board, CEO and Senior Commercial positions.
The Tokyo office will enhance our position in Japan and across Asia whilst supporting cross-border assignments across all H.I.E.C practice areas. The team will provide industry insights, future outlooks, and data-driven assessments about industries and global economics to support clients in navigating the future of leadership.
“Japan’s technology ecosystem is at a pivotal moment, with increased investment in AI, cloud infrastructure, and digital transformation creating unprecedented demand for global leadership talent,” commented George Johnson, Partner, H.I.E.C. “I am delighted to lead H.I.E.C’s expansion in Japan. We’re proud to join this fantastic team in delivering exceptional talent solutions both domestically and across the region.”
The Tokyo office will enhance H.I.E.C’s position in the JAPAC market while supporting cross-border assignments across all practice areas. The team will help clients navigate Japan’s rapidly evolving technology sectors, including analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning – areas expected to see significant growth.
