"Nambu has his desk at the center of this big space, " says Takenaka of Pasona's Tokyo headquarters.

CNN: LEADERS FOR THE MILLENNIUM

Although a few Japanese firms have sought Pasona's services, foreign affiliates can often make better use of Japan's diversity of young talent.

ECONOMIST: Sayonara, sarariman

Yet when he started Pasona 25 years ago, his prospects were hardly promising: The lifetime employment system was firmly entrenched and job movements were subject to government restrictions.

CNN: LEADERS FOR THE MILLENNIUM