#Japan #Tokyo #StartPass #CxO-Pass #Axis Consulting

Bridging the Gap in Startup Management Talent: The Rise of CxO-Pass

In a remarkable achievement, CxO-Pass, a matching service developed collaboratively by StartPass and Axis Consulting, has surpassed 500 registered users in just one year since its launch. This innovative platform has quickly established itself as a vital link between startups and CxO-level talent, especially in Japan's flourishing startup ecosystem.

The Growing Need for Leadership Talent

Japan's startup scene is on the rise, buoyed by increasing support for startup growth and an improving funding environment. However, a critical issue looms: the shortage of qualified leadership personnel, specifically executives in COO, CFO, and CMO roles. StartPass, driven by its mission to make Japan a friendlier country for startups, has been addressing this gap through initiatives like CxO-Pass. Together with Axis Consulting, they aim to facilitate management, recruitment, and funding for emerging startups.

What is CxO-Pass?

CxO-Pass serves as a flexible matching service that allows startups to connect with management talent through part-time or contract roles. It also presents aspiring CxOs with unique career paths to gain management experience while pursuing their ambitions.

Key Features

1. Exclusive Access to Rare Startups: CxO-Pass focuses on seed and early-phase startups, where leadership is imperative for success. Through established relationships with startup founders, StartPass can present opportunities that align closely with the needs and challenges of these businesses.

2. Flexible Working Models: Employing CxOs on a part-time basis helps foster mutual understanding and trust between startups and candidates before committing to a full-time role. This approach minimizes mismatched expectations in recruitment.

Current Status of Registrations

As of September 2025, CxO-Pass boasts 523 registered users. Among these, 206 have made contact with startups, and 208 are in the interview scheduling phase. Some candidates have transitioned from part-time to full-time positions as they engage with startups.

The platform currently has around 50 active job listings, with 20 to 30 new openings monthly, effectively allowing startups and potential CxO candidates to connect without undue risk. Approximately 70% of registrants are in their 30s to 40s, showcasing a pool of experienced professionals eager to contribute to startup growth and financial success.

Testimonials

"CxO-Pass made the idea of starting my own business feel tangible. Participating as a part-time COO for a startup allowed me to engage in core business activities that I couldn't experience in my main job. My entrepreneurial aspirations have become more realistic since joining."

– A member in their late twenties, currently in IT consulting.

"Through CxO-Pass, I haven’t just changed how I work—I've experienced the potential for societal change through my involvement in a manufacturing DX startup. The insights I’ve gained from helping shape business strategies have revitalized my career."

– A member in their 40s with a background in consulting.

Voices from Partner Companies

Yamamoto Shin, CEO of CoPalette

"CxO-Pass has allowed us to meet highly skilled business talents who excel in driving projects forward. Their assistance in organizing financial aspects and preparing our sales strategies has significantly propelled our business."

Yasuda Koichi, CEO of Kasanare

"Finding diverse professionals with high qualifications through traditional recruitment avenues is challenging. CxO-Pass has simplified this process dramatically, enhancing both the speed and quality of our hiring."

Future Directions

By the end of September 2027, StartPass aims to expand its CxO talent pool to 5,600 registrants, solidifying its role as a leading connector between startups and executive talent. The platform will emphasize various forms of engagement, from freelance to full-time, thereby bolstering the management foundations of startups and contributing to Japan's competitive workforce landscape.

About Axis Consulting

Founded in April 2002, Axis Consulting is committed to being a partner in addressing organizational challenges while empowering talents. With a staff of 164, they offer a range of services, including recruitment, freelance consulting, and strategic advisory, supporting flexible career pathways for professionals.

About StartPass

StartPass envisions a Japan where startups thrive. They specialize in providing a comprehensive management support platform tailored for startups, having onboarded over 1,000 contracted businesses. Established in 2021, StartPass continues to drive innovation in the startup sector.

For further inquiries related to CxO-Pass or to facilitate connections, please visit this link.