International recruitment services often determine how smoothly a company grows across borders. WHILL Europe shows this clearly. The Japanese mobility innovator entered Europe with a bold vision, and they needed the right people to make it happen. With the support of Octagon Professionals, WHILL strengthened its European market expansion and built a team ready to make a real impact.
How WHILL Used International Recruitment Services to Build Its European Operations
WHILL stands out in today’s fast-moving, global environment. Moreover, the Japanese company works hard to ensure that people with mobility challenges enjoy the freedom to move with confidence. Their personal electronic vehicles combine advanced technology with an innovative design, and this creates a smooth and enjoyable experience for users.
Founded in 2012, WHILL set out to bring fun, independence, and smart design to people who rely on mobility aid. Since then, the company has grown rapidly in Japan, and its leadership soon took the next step. They decided to share their innovation with the world and, as a result, began their European market expansion.
Shogo Koda, President of WHILL Europe, explains that establishing a base in the Netherlands held major strategic value. The team wanted to introduce their flagship Model C to Europe and grow their presence quickly. Because of this, they needed a recruitment agency in the Netherlands that understood both the market and their culture.
Creating WHILL’s European Headquarters Through a Personal Approach – International Recruitment Services
In 2018, WHILL partnered with Octagon Professionals to set up their European Headquarters in Amsterdam. From the beginning, WHILL focused on hiring Business Development and After-Sales talent. As a result, these new team members helped WHILL build strong local networks and support customers across Europe.
“Octagon Professionals came highly recommended by my network,” says Shogo Koda. He remembers feeling impressed after speaking with one of Octagon’s senior recruitment specialists. “I really appreciated her personal approach. It’s very unique. Octagon seemed ready to understand our needs, rather than feel inclined to make a deal. This approach guided my decision to choose Octagon as the right recruitment partner for WHILL.”
Since 2018, WHILL Europe has grown steadily. Furthermore, throughout this journey, Octagon has supported the company with ongoing international recruitment services tailored to WHILL’s culture and goals.
Supporting Long-Term Growth With Cultural Understanding and Trusted Expertise with International Recruitment Services
“Octagon has enabled us to work seriously and find the right candidates,” shares Shogo Koda. “They focus on finding the right cultural match: one of the most important aspects for a relatively small team like us.”
WHILL also relies on Octagon for support during negotiations with clients. Octagon’s diverse team offers a strong understanding of both European and Japanese business cultures, which helps during sensitive discussions.
“Growing companies know how important it is to hire people who have the right cultural fit,” adds Shogo Koda. “That’s why the Octagon team is great for any growing team, or any company trying to grow quickly.”
Conclusion
WHILL Europe’s journey shows how international recruitment services create a strong base for European market expansion. With a people-first and culturally aware approach, Octagon helped WHILL build a trusted team that supports their long-term vision.
Supporting Japanese businesses is what Octagon’s Japan desk does. If your organisation plans to expand into Europe or strengthen its presence here, our international recruitment services will help you hire the right people with confidence. Reach out to Octagon Professionals today to begin your next chapter.
