Young Professionals to Watch: John Marasigan
The en World Japan senior consultant shares how the ACCJ has helped him step forward and grow
The Young Professionals Forum (YPF) serves as a platform to connect working professionals aged 35 and under within the American Chamber of Commerce in Japan (ACCJ). In this installment of our Young Professionals to Watch series, we talk to John Marasigan, a senior consultant at en world Japan, about the real-life lessons he has learned by participating in YPF events, which go beyond traditional networking to give young professionals opportunities to learn directly from senior ACCJ members in intimate settings.
What do you do at en world Japan?
As a consultant, I partner with executive leaders across all industries in Tokyo to solve complex challenges by offering interim talent solutions to their finance teams. My aim is to build genuine, lasting relationships and to become a trusted leader, both within my organization and across my professional network.
What is the most memorable project you’ve worked on? How did being a young professional make a difference?
Through a YPF introduction, I connected with a founder of a renowned marketing company. What began as a mentorship request evolved into an opportunity to assist with key challenges, including introducing adviser-level professionals for his executive team.
Unfortunately, after presenting several potential advisers, the company decided to move forward with another option. This experience reinforced an important lesson: even with the best of intentions, outcomes may not always align with expectations. But it was a valuable opportunity to practice humility.
How does en world Japan empower its young professionals?
At en world Japan, I get to drive and grow my own business while benefiting from a supportive corporate framework—truly the best of both worlds. It’s a great fit for anyone with an entrepreneurial spirit who values the structure and resources of an established organization. You’ll have access to a warm network, a robust database, and a reliable back-office team—all working together to ensure your success.
Do you have a memorable moment from a YPF or ACCJ event?
Meeting with Dave Powell, the vice president and general manager of Disney+ in Japan, was a highlight. The office setting and lunch bento boxes were nice touches, but what truly mattered were the practical, eye-opening insights he shared. I especially appreciated his advice on volunteering for tasks others avoid—an effective way to build reliability and responsibility within your organization. Access to leaders like Dave is what makes the YPF group special; it fosters conversations that go far deeper than the surface-level exchanges typical at most networking events.
What are your expectations for the YPF and the ACCJ?
I hope the YPF and ACCJ will invest more in younger professionals. That means making events more accessible, providing hands-on guidance, and offering real encouragement—especially for those new to networking. With Japan’s declining population and aging workforce, it is vital that we focus on developing tomorrow’s leaders. Let’s give them the spotlight, meaningful responsibilities, and the support they need to step forward and grow.
Making a Difference
The ACCJ Journal also spoke to Marasigan’s manager, Adrian Lee, about his contributions.
“John exemplifies the qualities of a highly driven and ambitious professional, characterized by a profound dedication to continuous learning, refinement of his expertise, and the cultivation of meaningful professional networks,” said Lee, senior manager of en world Japan’s Contract Professionals Division. “Organizations such as the ACCJ and groups like the YPF serve as invaluable platforms, fostering environments where individuals like John can excel and further distinguish themselves within their industries. By offering access to thought leadership, expert-led seminars, and collaborative workshops—alongside opportunities for interaction with like-minded business professionals—the events they host provide the resources that underpin John’s consistent excellence as a top performer within our firm.”
Lee also noted how Marasigan has distinguished himself in an industry often marked by transactional exchanges by adopting a consultative approach.
“He prioritizes building genuine rapport with clients, gaining a nuanced understanding of their specific needs, and delivering tailored insights and market intelligence,” Lee said. “This approach empowers clients to make strategic, well-informed decisions regarding their hiring objectives, and reflects John’s unwavering commitment to elevating professional standards and outcomes.”
