Buy Side Recruitment
Looking for top talent to strengthen your buy side operations in Japan? Selby Jennings is a trusted recruitment firm, connecting exceptional professionals with leading financial institutions in Tokyo and across the country. With a strong network, deep market knowledge, and focus on results, we specialise in executive buy side recruitment.
To discuss how we can support your hiring needs in Japan’s financial sector, request a call back with our team today.

Supporting every step of your buy side recruitment journey
Market knowledge in Japan
Our consultants have in-depth expertise across Japan’s buy side sectors, including asset management, private equity, hedge funds, insurance, and investments. We provide insights on pay, hiring trends, and industry surveys specific to Tokyo and the wider Japanese market, helping firms identify professionals with the right skills and experience.
Tailored recruitment strategies
Hiring the right professionals is only the first step. Retaining and engaging talent as your business grows is just as important. With over 20 years of experience in buy side recruitment, Selby Jennings has developed strategies tailored to Japan that focus on identifying top performers, building long-term relationships, and delivering talent when it matters most.
Global reach, local expertise
Sourcing buy side talent in Japan is competitive, particularly when cultural fit and bilingual capability are required. Through our international network and strong relationships with leading financial institutions in Tokyo, we connect firms with active and passive candidates who align with both technical needs and company culture.
Lasting partnerships
We work as a long-term partner, not just a recruiter. By providing continuous support and tailored solutions, we help Japanese financial firms adapt to changing market conditions and secure professionals with emerging skills. This partnership approach supports sustainable growth and long-term success.
Selby Jennings partners with a diverse range of buy-side institutions globally, including but not limited to:
- Hedge Funds (Long/Short, Macro, Quant, Multi-Manager)
- Private Equity Firms (Growth, Buyout, Sector-Specific)
- Venture Capital Funds (Early-Stage to Growth)
- Asset Managers (Traditional, ESG, Thematic)
- Family Offices (Single & Multi-Family)
- Fund of Funds & OCIO Platforms
- Institutional Allocators (Pensions, Endowments)
- Direct Investment Teams at Sovereign Wealth Funds
…and many more specialized investment platforms across both alternative and traditional strategies.
Looking to grow your team?
Request a call back and speak with one of our specialist consultants today.
Selby Jennings partners with leading buy-side firms globally to deliver top-tier talent across investment, research, and distribution functions. Roles we typically support include, but are not limited to:
- Investment Analyst
- Research Analyst (Equity, Credit, Macro)
- Quantitative Analyst
- ESG Analyst
- Portfolio Analyst
- Trader (Execution / Systematic)
- Risk Analyst
- Data Analyst
- Client Services Associate
- Investor Relations Associate
- Product Analyst
- Capital Raising Associate
We connect high-performing professionals with hedge funds, private equity firms, asset managers, and family offices where performance and precision drive long-term success.
Selby Jennings offers various workforce solutions tailored to your specific objectives.
- Permanent hires - Our permanent search service, whether through contingent or retained buy side recruitment, helps you secure the professionals who can truly make an impact.
- Contract hires - Our extensive network of contractors and interim managers integrate seamlessly into companies to drive short term goals.
- Multi-hire projects - We take a consultative approach with our clients, managing the entire recruitment process from sourcing to hiring across the entire project.
Selby Jennings delivered exactly what we needed — sharp, culturally aligned candidates with speed and discretion. A truly valued partner in buy side recruitment.
Ready to discover the perfect candidate for your role?
With our proven track record of success, dedication to client satisfaction, and unwavering commitment, we are the go-to buy side recruitment firm for leading institutions worldwide.
Contact us today to discuss your buy side recruitment needs or complete the form and one of our specialist consultants will give you a call.
Buy side recruitment insights
Buy side recruitment FAQs
Tokyo is the primary hub for asset management, hedge funds, and private equity. Osaka also has a strong financial presence, particularly in asset management and pensions. Selby Jennings supports clients across Japan, with a strong focus on Tokyo.
Asset management, private equity, hedge funds, insurance, and pensions are key sectors. ESG and sustainable investing are also gaining momentum, especially among institutional investors and global firms with a presence in Japan.
Hiring can take several months due to strong competition for bilingual Japanese-English professionals, regulatory requirements, and limited availability of niche skill sets. Notice periods in Japan often range from one to three months, extending start dates even after a hire is made. Selby Jennings reduces these timelines by connecting firms with pre-vetted candidates ready to move.
ESG and sustainable finance knowledge, quantitative analysis, portfolio management, private equity expertise, and compliance with FSA (Financial Services Agency) regulations are in high demand. Cross-border investment experience is also highly valued.
We provide local expertise in Tokyo and Osaka while leveraging a global network to source talent that may not be available in the domestic market. We offer compensation insights, hiring trend analysis, and customized recruitment strategies, helping firms secure professionals who match technical needs and cultural expectations.