TOKYO (APRIL 23, 2025) – Leading talent advisory firm DHR Global announces that Takayuki (Taka) Wakai has joined the firm as a Partner in the Industrial and Life Science Practice Groups. Based in Tokyo, Wakai has more than 25 years of experience serving in human resources, executive search, and organizational strategy roles, helping companies secure top talent to drive innovation and operational excellence.
With extensive experience across U.S., European, and Japanese companies, Wakai has advised multinational corporations and high-growth startups on leadership development, talent acquisition, and Human Resources (HR) transformation. His background in scaling teams, managing corporate operations, and optimizing HR functions positions him as a trusted adviser for organizations that are navigating complex talent challenges.
“I’ve spent my career working with companies that operate across borders, industries, and cultures,” Wakai said. “One of the most consistent challenges they face is identifying leaders who can balance technical expertise with strategic vision.
“A great hire isn’t just about credentials – it’s about finding someone who can adapt, lead through change, and align with an organization’s unique goals,” he continued. “At DHR, I look forward to working with clients to find those leaders and build talent strategies that strengthen their organizations from the inside out.”
Before joining DHR, Wakai held senior HR leadership roles at Intuitive Surgical Japan, Mercer Japan Ltd., Nobel Biocare Holding AG, and Medtronic Japan Co., Ltd. He was also Head of HR for a startup, where he helped expand the company from its early stages to a 300-person organization. His expertise spans recruitment, compensation and benefits, performance management, and policy development, giving him a comprehensive understanding of corporate operations and talent strategy.
Wakai earned a master’s degree in industrial relations and HR management from the University of Sydney and a bachelor’s degree in law from Waseda University in Tokyo. He’s fluent in Japanese, English, and Mandarin Chinese and certified in Predictive Index® Analysis and HBDI® Assessment.