From Tech to SCM: Quinn’s journey to early success in Japan’s Supply Chain Industry

Meet Quinn Borders , a driven consultant who recently made the bold leap from Tech recruitment to the world of Supply Chain Management (SCM) at RGF Professional Recruitment Japan . Despite being new to the industry, Quinn hit the ground running, making three successful placements in just a few months. In this interview, Quinn shares insights on adapting to a new sector, the challenges of learning a new industry from scratch, and what drives them to keep pushing forward. Quinn' story is a testament to the power of embracing change and the rewards that come with it.

You moved from Tech to SCM recruitment—what motivated that shift, and how did you adapt to a completely new industry?

After graduating from university in Tokyo in 2022, I worked at a startup doing Tech recruitment, and later joined an AI-focused tech company. I had always been in the tech world, so when I joined RGF in June this year, moving to SCM recruitment was a big leap. To be honest, I initially thought SCM might be less exciting compared to Tech. But I was intrigued by the opportunity to learn something new and challenge myself.

One of the first things I did to prepare was ask my Manager, Khan, to get me a self-learning book on “Operations and Supply Chain Management Essentials.” I dove into online research, made tons of notes, and scheduled as many meetings with SCM candidates as possible. Those conversations were key. I went in without knowing much, listened closely to what people were saying about their roles, and got a feel for what they were looking for in their next position. Even if I sounded clueless at first, just being open and willing to learn from the people I spoke to was hugely beneficial. Now, I actually prefer SCM over Tech—it’s been a surprisingly good fit!

How did you manage to make three placements in quick succession despite being new to the sector?

My success was all about taking action. I didn't get bogged down in over-preparing or perfecting my approach—I just jumped in and started talking to candidates. I’ve always believed that you can only learn so much from theory; practice is what counts. So I focused on moving quickly, scheduling calls, sending out CVs, and following up with clients. Speed was crucial because in recruitment, the best candidates don’t stay available for long.

For the three placements, each came from a different source: one from our database, one from LinkedIn, and another from a lead my teammate was working with. From our first conversations, it was clear they had a lot to offer. By understanding their strengths and presenting them in the best light, they impressed clients and excelled in the interviews. The trust and rapport we built played a major role in the successful outcome.

What challenges did you face in learning the SCM industry, and how did you handle them?

The biggest challenge was definitely the new vocabulary. Terms like SAP, ERP, and other acronyms were completely foreign to me. During my first few weeks, I often felt out of my depth during conversations, but instead of pretending to know it all, I was honest. I would just say, “I’m new to SCM, can you explain this to me?” People were surprisingly understanding and willing to help.

To overcome the learning curve, I created my own glossary on OneNote, filled with SCM-related terms I picked up from calls and meetings. I also relied on my colleagues who had more experience in the sector—they were invaluable in helping me understand the nuances. I believe asking questions and not being afraid to admit what I didn’t know played a big part in my rapid adaptation.

What advice would you give to recruiters thinking of switching to a different industry?

Switching industries can feel risky because you worry about losing the network and expertise you’ve built. I felt the same way. But if you’re feeling a bit stagnant or burned out, a change can reignite your enthusiasm for recruitment. My advice is to dive in wholeheartedly—don’t just dabble. Commit to learning everything you can about the new sector, even if you look like a beginner at first.

When I moved from Tech to SCM, I discovered that I actually enjoyed the new field more than I expected. It was refreshing to start from scratch and build knowledge again, and I found it brought a renewed sense of excitement to my work. If you’re on the fence about switching, just remember that it’s an opportunity to grow, and you might end up finding a field you’re even more passionate about.

How has RGF supported you during this transition, and what do you appreciate most about working here?

RGF has been a game-changer in terms of support and training. Coming from startups, I never had any formal training in recruitment—I learned on the job, often by trial and error. At RGF, however, I received structured training that taught me the ins and outs of recruitment in a much more systematic way. I also had access to a vast database of candidates, which was incredibly helpful.

But what I appreciate the most about RGF is the culture. When I first heard people say the atmosphere here was friendly and supportive, I thought it was just a cliché. But it turned out to be true. The team members are genuinely nice and willing to help, and I’ve made a lot of friends. It’s a positive environment that makes coming to work enjoyable.

You’ve had early success with your placements—how do you stay motivated to keep pushing forward?

Early success is great, but it also raises expectations, which can be daunting. For me, it's not about hitting placement targets; it's about becoming a better consultant. I focus on improving how I engage with both candidates and clients. Seeing my own growth as a consultant is what keeps me motivated. I know that if I continue to refine my skills and build stronger relationships, the success will follow naturally. It’s less about numbers and more about personal and professional development.

Quinn’s journey from a Tech-focused recruiter to a thriving SCM consultant is a clear example of how determination, curiosity, and the right support can lead to remarkable results—even in unfamiliar territory. With early successes under their belt, Quinn is set on continuing to grow, both professionally and personally, aiming to make an even bigger impact at RGF. If there’s one lesson from Quinn’s story, it’s that sometimes, taking the leap into the unknown can lead to new passions and unexpected achievements.

If you are in Japan's SCM industry, whether hiring or exploring new career opportunities, reaching out to Quinn Borders could be your next step forward.

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