#Japan #LIFULL #Chiyoda, Tokyo #Senior Employment #Workforce Innovation

LIFULL Continues to Shape the Future of Senior Employment

LIFULL, Inc., a company committed to addressing societal challenges through business, is reaffirming its dedication to senior employment by continuing its innovative program known as "老卒採用" (Rōsotsu Sainyō), or "Senior Recruitment" for a second consecutive year in 2025. This initiative aims to harness the wealth of experience possessed by seniors aged 65 and above, creating a work environment where they can thrive and contribute meaningfully. The company is also inviting other businesses and organizations that share this vision to join in transforming societal perceptions regarding senior employment.

The Significance of Senior Employment

According to a report by the Cabinet Office, by 2025, approximately one in three citizens will be 65 years or older. The Statistics Bureau of Japan notes that seniors currently account for 13.5% of Japan's workforce, highlighting the pivotal role seniors play in the labor market. Despite a clear demand for experienced workers, LIFULL's own survey revealed that only 20% of companies actively hire seniors. Alarmingly, more than 60% of hiring managers acknowledged they had considered age as a disqualifying factor. This discrepancy underscores a significant gap between the available talent and the hiring practices of companies that are influenced by outdated notions regarding aging.

LIFULL identified this gap as a major societal concern and launched the "老卒採用" program in 2024, with the slogan "There is no need to retire just because you age." The initiative garnered attention both inside and outside the company, as it actively sought skilled seniors looking to continue their careers, alongside cultivating a culture that values their contributions.

Achievements of the Program

In its first year, the "老卒採用" program attracted a diverse pool of applicants, illustrating a shift in the workforce dynamic. A notable example is Mr. Kanji Miyakawa, a 68-year-old senior who joined LIFULL under this initiative. With an extensive background as Chief Creative Officer at an international advertising agency, Mr. Miyakawa not only produced the company's slogans but also played a vital role in the content creation for their official TikTok account and managed their owned media platforms. His involvement brought a unique perspective and fostered intergenerational collaboration, contributing significantly to the team’s achievements.

About Kanji Miyakawa

Born in Kumamoto Prefecture in 1956, Mr. Miyakawa has had a stellar career in advertising and has earned accolades, including the JAAA Creator of the Year medal in 2005. Beyond his work at LIFULL, he dedicates time to volunteer as a sound translator, showcasing his commitment to community service.

Reflecting on his experience at LIFULL, Mr. Miyakawa expressed, "If I had only been given unknown tasks, it would have been tough. However, the balance between applying my previous experience and trying new challenges made this past year challenging yet enjoyable."

Recruitment Details

LIFULL has outlined various positions available through the "老卒採用" program:

• - Sales Positions - Work alongside the head of the LIFULL HOME'S sales department.
• - Creative Roles - Including video editors and writers for LIFULL STORIES, collaborating closely with creative directors.
• - IT Architects - Focused on data and digital transformation initiatives.

The recruitment will run from July 17 to August 4, 2025, and is open to applicants aged 65 and over. The application process will be conducted online through their entry page. LIFULL is also appealing to companies and organizations interested in adopting new perspectives on senior employment to join them in this endeavor.

LIFULL's Commitment to Diversity

The initiative aligns with LIFULL's broader mission of promoting diversity, as articulated through their corporate message, "There is no need to..." Since 2018, LIFULL has actively challenged established norms, encouraging all individuals to lead lives true to themselves without the constraints of societal expectations. This ethos shapes their plans for growth in various sectors, including real estate, healthcare, and community development.

In December 2023, the company welcomed new leadership with Yuji Ito taking over as CEO. LIFULL aims to evolve continuously as they tackle societal challenges through diverse thinking and collective action. Through the "老卒採用" program, LIFULL aspires to provide a platform for recognizing and embracing the value of aging, empowering seniors to explore new opportunities and redefine their professional paths.

For more information regarding the recruitment process or the implications of the "老卒採用" initiative, feel free to reach out at [email protected].

Conclusion

LIFULL's unwavering commitment to social responsibility and the integration of experienced seniors into the workforce stands as a progressive vision for the future of employment. By reimagining the narrative surrounding aging and employment, they pave the way for a more inclusive and vibrant society.