Howden construction team launches new Japanese initiative with key senior appointments

Howden has announced the launch of its new Japanese initiative within the Construction & Infrastructure Assets Division. 

This initiative further strengthens its global capabilities in supporting Japanese‑led construction and infrastructure projects worldwide. As part of this initiative, Nobu Akahane has joined the business as Head of Japanese Construction, alongside Masami Ono, who will support the initiative in a senior capacity, both based in Howden’s London office within the International Construction team.

The new initiative has been established in response to the significant and growing volume of Japanese investment in major global infrastructure and construction projects. This includes substantial activity across the Asia Pacific region, North America, and markets where Japanese corporates continue to play a leading role, particularly within Power & Energy and Civil Construction.

Nobu and Masami bring extensive sector expertise, strong technical credentials, and deep client relationships, having supported Japanese corporations on complex multinational risks throughout their careers. Their appointment enhances Howden’s ability to deliver specialist solutions for Japanese clients across multiple jurisdictions, while creating new opportunities for cross‑border collaboration across the wider Howden network.

A strengthened global offering

The Japanese Initiative is designed as a global resource, enabling Howden to support clients wherever their projects are located. Working closely with Howden’s local office in Japan, Nobu and Masami will focus on:

• Supporting Japanese‑led construction and infrastructure activity worldwide
• Enhancing Howden’s proposition in power, energy and civil engineering sectors
• Expanding international capabilities across Construction & Infrastructure Assets
• Strengthening cross‑selling opportunities across the broader Howden Group