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SP Research and ENTOMO: A New Era of Talent Management in Japan

In a strategic move to revolutionize talent management in Japan, SP Research Inc. has fortified its collaboration with the Singaporean HR technology firm ENTOMO PTE. LTD. This partnership aims to accelerate the adoption of skill-based talent management in Japanese companies, with former Workday director Hirofumi Utagawa joining as a strategic advisor. These steps come at a time when Japanese companies are looking to optimize their workforce strategies to cope with rapid technological advancements and declining population numbers.

Background Context

The global labor market is experiencing a significant paradigm shift, moving towards a strategic focus on human capital. Companies are increasingly realizing that their competitive edge hinges on the skills and capabilities of their workforce. However, many businesses struggle to effectively identify and utilize their employees' skills due to challenges in defining and updating skill sets.

The concept of skill-based talent management is gaining traction as it directly connects employee skills to organizational strategies. By making these skills visible and actionable, businesses can align their workforce capabilities with their strategic goals. Nevertheless, achieving this vision has proven complex for many organizations.

Strengthening the Partnership

SP Research specializes in designing skill frameworks tailored to specific industry needs. On the other hand, ENTOMO is equipped with cutting-edge AI technology that efficiently extracts and visualizes skills from unstructured data such as resumes, performance records, and learning logs. By combining their strengths, SP Research and ENTOMO aim to provide companies with tools for swift talent deployment and development while empowering employees to take charge of their career paths. This collaboration is set to enhance human capital management practices across various sectors in Japan.

Hirofumi Utagawa’s Involvement

Hirofumi Utagawa brings over 20 years of experience in global HCM development and market strategy, having previously held significant positions at PeopleSoft, Oracle, and Workday. As a strategic advisor to both SP Research and ENTOMO, Utagawa is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing their collective strategy for penetrating the Japanese market. He expressed his vision, stating, “The adoption of AI-driven employee experiences in Japan is lagging. Through ENTOMO, I aspire to create a future where every employee can realize their growth and the value of human capital management.”

Upcoming Event

Interested parties are invited to a significant event where comprehensive insights regarding this partnership will be shared, along with reports from HR Tech 2025—one of the largest HR technology conferences happening in Las Vegas— and the latest trends in human capital disclosure. Designated for executives, HR leaders, and those interested in HR technology, this will be a valuable informational session.

Event Details

• - Date: September 26, 2025 (Doors open at 18:30, event runs from 19:00 to 21:30)
• - Venue: Shibuya, Tokyo at TRUNK (HOTEL) CAT STREET Annex, 2nd Floor “MORI”
• - Registration: Event Registration

Innovative Models for Human Capital Growth

The model developed by SP Research and ENTOMO focuses on visualizing employee skills in conjunction with job roles and using AI to analyze and bridge the skill gaps. This dual approach supports both individual career development and the execution of business strategies.

Joint Statements

Ryoshi Tamio, CEO of SP Research stated, “The strategic utilization of human capital is directly linked to corporate growth. By amalgamating SP Research's expertise in human capital management with ENTOMO's technology, we aim to institutionalize next-generation skill management.”

Kavitha Venkatachalam, CEO of ENTOMO PX, noted, “I am thrilled to strengthen our partnership with SP Research and support Japanese companies in nurturing talent and skill development. I believe this collaboration will solidify employee growth and seamlessly translate it into business success, based on trust, results, and a shared vision for Japan.”

Company Profiles

SP Research Inc.

• - CEO: Ryoshi Tamio
• - Location: 1-2 Hakozaki-cho, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
• - Business Focus: Consulting services and HR technology to realize sustainable performance and human capital management.
• - Website: SP Research

ENTOMO PTE. LTD.

• - CEO: Kavitha Venkatachalam
• - Location: 60 Paya Lebar Road #11-06 Paya Lebar Square, Singapore
• - Business Focus: Development and provision of AI technology for skill extraction and talent matching.
• - Website: ENTOMO

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