Exploring the Failures of Japanese Companies in Human Resource Management and Its Solutions

The Challenges of Japanese Companies in Human Resource Management

On June 26, 2026, in Takamatsu, Kagawa, Imajina Inc., under the leadership of CEO Yoshiki Sekino, will host an inner branding seminar focused on sustainable growth in the region. This seminar, in partnership with Cambridge University’s Psychometrics Centre, aims to reveal scientific methods for hiring, placement, and development using the innovative psychological test known as OBPI (Orpheus Business Personality Inventory).

The Current Crisis in Japanese Management

Japanese companies, particularly in regions like Takamatsu, face an unprecedented crisis. The World Competitiveness Ranking highlights a shocking decline in Japan’s management education, placing it 60th out of 64 countries. A significant issue stifling sustainable growth in local economies is the absence of a clear corporate philosophy and a lack of training for next-generation leaders. Research from Harvard University shows that about 70% of companies that falter in selecting successors are due to discrepancies in philosophy and values. Additionally, organizations lacking a strong philosophy face an 83% higher risk of employee turnover, according to data from the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). It is essential to redefine the concepts of “suitable placement” and “development” through scientific approaches rather than relying on subjective judgments.

Unveiling the OBPI: A Tool from Cambridge University's Expertise

The main highlight of this seminar is the introduction of OBPI, developed by Professor John Rust from Cambridge University, a globally recognized authority in psychometrics. OBPI is a cutting-edge psychological assessment tool that reveals the essence of individuals concerning their personality and integrity.

Visualizing Essence Through Two Key Factors

OBPI measures 12 scales based on the Big Five personality traits and the guiding principle of integrity crucial for workplace dynamics. It goes beyond mere personality testing to scientifically identify the situations in which individuals are willing to take risks and the positions where they can perform at their best.

Detecting Deception with Four Audit Scales

This assessment features a function that detects “faking good” responses, which about 63% of candidates reportedly engage in during job interviews. OBPI provides highly reliable data that is not swayed by the subjective experiences of managers.

Streamlining Processes from Placement to Development

Based on diagnostic data, OBPI offers specific insights tailored to individual traits, allowing for consistent personnel development that does not depend solely on a manager’s experience, thus fostering a self-sustaining organizational culture.

Key Content of the Seminar

- Practical methods for achieving tailored placements grounded in scientific evidence.
- Recruitment criteria designed to preemptively address the core issue of leadership alignment and philosophy dissonance.
- Contemporary inner branding techniques that diminish turnover risk and increase employee retention by threefold.
- Strategies developed by Cambridge University for nurturing integrity in the next generation of leaders.

Profile of the Speaker

Yoshiki Sekino, the President and CEO of Imajina Inc., has a wealth of experience spanning from moving to the United States at 15, working in Italy, and establishing a business in New York City. He is the first to comprehensively introduce advanced psychometrics in Japan, promoting a people-centric branding approach backed by over 3,000 company experiences. His published works have collectively surpassed 600,000 copies.

Event Details

- Date and Time: June 26, 2026 (Friday) from 13:00 to 14:30 (Doors open at 12:45)
- Location: Takamatsu Symbol Tower Hall, 6th Floor, Meeting Room 63, 2-1 Sunport, Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture
- Target Audience: Business owners, executives, next-generation leaders, HR managers
- Special Bonus: Includes a choice of free consultations suited to your company's challenges (covering management, training, recruitment, public relations, etc.)

For more details and to register: Imajina Seminar Entry