Forvis Mazars has launched dedicated Chinese and Japanese desks to support US multinational enterprises (MNEs) with operations and business interests in the two countries.
In a statement, the professional services company said the new desks will provide a single point of contact and strengthen coordination between Forvis Mazars’ US teams and professionals based in China and Japan.
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Forvis Mazars US partner and global business leader Michael Coletti said: “As we continue to expand the Forvis Mazars Global network and brand, we are doubling down on our commitment to provide an unmatched client experience to multinational companies.
“International desks provide our clients efficient and effective access to professionals who are fluent in the language, cultural norms, and local laws and regulations that clients face as they do business internationally.”
The Chinese desk will be led by Howard Hong, an assurance partner with 20 years of experience.
Hong is a native of China and is fluent in Mandarin and Cantonese. He has also served as a past member of the Governing Board at Forvis Mazars US.
Hong will be joined by Allen Wong, who also has 20 years of experience. Wong can speak Mandarin and Cantonese, and will advance to partner effective 1 June.
The Japanese desk will be led by Kaz Hatanaka, an assurance director with more than 15 years of experience.
Hatanaka joined the company in 2025 after 13 years at a “large international firm”, where he held a similar role supporting international collaboration. Hatanaka is fluent in Japanese and English.
The launch extends Forvis Mazars’ international desk model. The company previously introduced French and German desks to support multinational clients requiring coordinated cross-border services.
Forvis Mazars is an independent member of Forvis Mazars Global. The company has 7,000 team members delivering assurance, tax and consulting services across all 50 US states and internationally through the global network.
Last month, it was reported that Forvis Mazars reduced its US workforce by around 3% following lower-than-anticipated employee departures. Audit, tax and advisory teams were among those affected.
