#Japan #Tokyo #Workforce Solutions #Mishima Bank #Construction Association

National Construction Human Resources Association Partners with Mishima Shinkin Bank

In a significant move aimed at bolstering the workforce in Japan's construction sector, the National Construction Human Resources Association (Zenken) has officially signed a partnership agreement with Mishima Shinkin Bank. This collaboration marks a stepping stone towards addressing the ongoing labor shortages and enhancing the development of the construction industry across Japan.

Background of the Partnership

Founded in 2013, Zenken has carved out a niche as one of the few organizations authorized to provide paid employment services specifically for construction professionals in a highly regulated industry. They received their license to operate as a paid employment agency, enabling them to connect skilled tradespeople, known as 'shokunin,' with potential employers. Since launching their recruiting service in 2021, Zenken has successfully placed around 550 job seekers into permanent positions, and by November 2025, they plan to introduce a specialized direct recruiting service called 'Shokunin Scout.' This initiative aims to improve matchmaking opportunities between young job seekers and businesses, thus expediting solutions to the challenges facing the construction sector. However, there remains a pressing need to raise awareness of their services among both job seekers and employers.

On the other hand, Mishima Shinkin Bank, a regional financial institution based in Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture, has been actively responding to the pressing issue of labor shortages faced by its clients, predominantly small and medium-sized enterprises in the construction sector. As labor shortages become a critical issue across various industries, many local construction firms have turned to the bank for support in finding effective solutions.

This partnership will leverage the strengths and networks of both organizations to effectively address the challenges within the construction sector and ensure local companies have access to the skilled labor they require.

Objectives of the Partnership

The partnership's activities will focus on several key initiatives:

1. Awareness and Outreach

Mishima Shinkin Bank will promote Zenken’s recruitment services, including the 'Shokunin Scout' initiative, to its client companies. This outreach is designed to inform these businesses about available solutions for their labor shortages.

2. Consultation and Tailored Matching

Understanding that many of the bank's clients are locally owned businesses, Zenken will provide counseling to these enterprises regarding their staffing needs. By introducing both inexperienced youth and highly skilled specialists, the partnership aims to strengthen the management of local companies and maintain the quality of construction work.

About the National Construction Human Resources Association (Zenken)

Zenken is an organization composed of companies, associations, and business owners involved in the construction industry. Its membership spans from large corporations to small firms and individual contractors. The primary mission of Zenken is to support the construction sector economically, socially, and technologically, contributing to its sustainable development. Addressing critical issues such as the aging workforce and shortage of young talent, Zenken provides unique services, including the introduction of skilled workers and promoting improved labor environments through initiatives like enhancing labor insurance coverage.

• - President: Minoru Okano
• - Location: 3F, Kōguchimachi Miyabikan, 3-5 Nibancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
• - Contact: 03-6261-1337
• - Services: Paid job placement, labor insurance for individual contractors, and comprehensive insurance for workplace accidents.
• - Permits: Construction Employment Agency License No. 13-Ke-300001, Paid Employment Agency License No. 13-Yu-315291.
• - Website: Zenken HR

About Mishima Shinkin Bank

Mishima Shinkin Bank operates under the management philosophy of 'Co-existence and Mutual Prosperity,' providing finance that is closely aligned with the needs of the local community, particularly in the eastern region of Shizuoka and the Izu Peninsula. The bank is dedicated to supporting the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises and improving the quality of life for individuals. Emphasizing strong connections with the local community, Mishima Shinkin Bank aims to contribute to economic development and the overall enhancement of living standards.

• - President: Masayoshi Takashima
• - Head Office: 12-3 Shibamotocho, Mishima City, Shizuoka Prefecture
• - Website: Mishima Shinkin Bank