Unilever’s potential exit from its Foods division could reshape Big Food, triggering supply‑chain shifts, leadership changes, and major competitive realignment.
Thomas Fortier has over 20 years’ experience in executive search in Japan, where he has resided since 1994. He has led numerous searches for senior executives, including hard-to-fill and mission-critical roles with complex requirements. His expertise and commitment to results make him a valuable ally in recruiting high-calibre leaders for businesses with an eye on Asia’s diverse consumer markets.
Professional Focus
- More than 20 years’ experience in executive search in Japan
- Extensive track record of successful searches for C-level, VP and director roles, as well as country, regional and divisional managers
- Specialized industry expertise in consumer products and electronics, digital media, ecommerce, lifestyle, sports & outdoor, and marketing services
- Proven ability to lead challenging searches for hard-to-fill positions requiring extensive research and market mapping, as well as confidential searches involving sensitive information
- Experience working with startups, private/owner-operated companies, PE-owned firms, Japanese and foreign multinationals
- Adept in succession planning, including internal candidate benchmarking
- Fluent in Japanese and English
Business Expertise
- Principal Consultant, Consumer & Digital Markets at one of Japan’s top executive search firms; other roles included Managing Consultant, Consumer Goods & Retail and Senior Consultant over the course of 10 years with the firm
- Senior Consultant at an executive search and recruiting firm in Tokyo; promoted from Consultant and Associate roles
- Earlier roles in business planning and teaching in Tokyo and Aomori Prefecture.
Additional Expertise
- Communications, Media & Entertainment
- Consumer Products
- Ecommerce
- Digital Media
- Retail & Apparel
- Sports & Outdoor
Areas of Expertise
Education & Certifications
- Bachelor's of Arts from Tufts University, U.S.
- Bachelor's of Music in Jazz Studies from The New England Conservatory of Music, U.S.
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