The IT job market in Japan is evolving fast. With digital transformation accelerating across industries, bilingual IT professionals, especially project managers and consultants, are increasingly exploring contracting as a flexible and rewarding career path.
To understand what’s driving this shift, we sat down with Marcus Aakerholm, Practice Director of Technology, and Ahmad Royani, Division Director at Robert Half Japan, to discuss the rise of contract work, what’s behind the growing demand, and why both professionals and employers are embracing flexible hiring solutions.
Why are consultants turning to contracting and what are the benefits?
Marcus Aakerholm:
Depending on their expertise, contractors can often earn significantly more than permanent employees. Independent consultants who operate through their own company or as freelancers may also enjoy various tax advantages.
In addition, contracting offers a more flexible working style, allowing professionals to choose the projects and teams they want to work with—even beyond traditional retirement age. This flexibility is particularly appealing in Japan, where the aging population is prompting many skilled professionals to stay active in the workforce longer.
What’s driving companies to hire contractors?
Ahmad Royani:
The main drivers are the rapid pace of technological innovation and the rising cost of hiring permanent employees, especially in the IT sector.
Another factor is the shift toward flexible work arrangements, accelerated by the pandemic. As organizations continue to adapt, many now see contracting as a strategic solution to maintain agility while managing costs.
Which roles are in highest demand?
Marcus Aakerholm:
There’s strong demand for bilingual project managers with specialized expertise. Some of the most sought-after roles include:
Business Applications Project Managers (SAP, Salesforce, ServiceNow, etc.)
IT Security Project Managers
Infrastructure Project Managers
Data Management Consultants
These professionals help organizations navigate complex projects while bridging communication between global teams and local stakeholders.
Why are companies choosing Robert Half Japan for flexible hiring?
Ahmad Royani:
Traditionally, companies in Japan have relied on consulting firms or system integrators for technology outsourcing. However, as digital transformation accelerates, demand for qualified talent is outpacing supply, pushing up costs for these services.
Robert Half Japan offers a more agile and cost-effective alternative. With our deep industry network, we provide high-quality consultants at competitive rates and unlike most consulting firms, our clients can directly hire these consultants if they wish to retain their knowledge long-term. This flexibility gives clients the best of both worlds: expertise and continuity.
Hire project and interim professionals
When critical projects arise such as mergers, acquisitions or rapid expansions, companies often face sudden increases in workload and need immediate access to skilled professionals.
Robert Half specializes in project and interim talent solutions, providing experienced bilingual business systems professionals who can quickly step in to support key initiatives. Our consultants work closely with client teams and are committed to ensuring every project is completed successfully from start to finish.
