Odgers Joins MUSUBI Initiative to Mentor Future Female Leaders
In a significant move towards empowering women leaders, Odgers, a global executive search firm headquartered in Tokyo, Japan, has officially joined the MUSUBI Initiative, hosted by the UK government. A reception on September 19 marked the announcement, with the Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh in attendance, welcoming Odgers as a pioneer partner. The mentorship program is set to launch in October 2025 and will focus on developing the next generation of female leaders.
The MUSUBI Initiative is a collaborative international project fostered by the UK government. It aims to strengthen the ties between Japan and the UK while promoting international talent development through various sectors, including sports, science, cultural exchange, and women's empowerment. As part of this initiative, Odgers will oversee the planning and execution of a mentorship program specifically tailored for female leaders.
Program Overview
- - Kick-off Date: October 2025 (Held semi-annually in April and October)
- - Target Audience: Individuals with a deep connection to either Japan or the UK, showing a keen interest in strengthening Japan-UK relations, and capable of smooth communication in English.
- - Mentors: Senior executives and board members committed to female empowerment (gender-inclusive).
- - Mentees: Aspiring female leaders targeting executive or board-level positions.
Participation is open to anyone globally, regardless of location.
Program Details
- - One-on-one mentoring sessions available online or in-person.
- - Annual networking party held at the British Ambassador's residence.
Unique Features
Mentees and mentors will be paired from diverse cultural backgrounds, allowing participants to experience a variety of perspectives. This cross-cultural exchange aims to broaden global viewpoints and foster leadership growth for all involved.
Additional Information
- - A preliminary selection process will be in place for applicants.
Comments from Odgers Japan Representative, Johan Aoutenbohld
Odgers, established in Japan in 1991, operates in over 30 countries worldwide. The firm focuses on supporting the recruitment and development of senior executives and board-level talents. Johan Aoutenbohld, the representative for Odgers in Japan, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to join the MUSUBI Initiative as a pioneer partner.
He stated, "We believe that diversity in leadership is essential for the growth and innovation of organizations. We are honored to contribute to the MUSUBI Initiative and hope to broaden opportunities for female leaders globally. Through our collective efforts to address challenges faced by the international community, we are committed to supporting the advancement of both Japan and the UK."
Contact Information for the Program
Odgers continues to leverage its global network to enhance corporate competitiveness and transformation through executive search, board search, succession planning, and talent assessment. This mentorship program is yet another step towards nurturing a diverse and empowered leadership for the future.