#Japan #Tokyo #consulting industry #Career Strategy #Hidekazu Watanabe

Concord Executive Group's Remarkable Achievement

The latest edition of 'Consulting Industry Research' (9th edition) by Hidekazu Watanabe, CEO of Concord Executive Group, has made waves in the publishing world by claiming the number one spot in the social sciences category of the Junkudo Ikebukuro store weekly rankings, announced on April 20, 2026. This is a significant achievement for a book that aims to navigate the complexities of the consulting industry and guide both students and professionals looking to enter this dynamic field.

Book Overview

Released on January 15, 2026, 'Consulting Industry Research' comes highly recommended within the community of aspiring consultants. It delves into various aspects of the consulting industry, including its structural changes due to the AI era, the evolving nature of consulting jobs, career paths post-consulting, and strategies to secure job offers in the competitive landscape. With over 250,000 copies sold across the entire series, this edition seeks to provide comprehensive insights that cater to a diverse readership.

In addition to its recognition at Junkudo's Ikebukuro store, the book also topped the Tokyo University Coop rankings in the employment and civil service category for February 2026, solidifying its place as the go-to resource for anyone serious about a career in consulting.

Special Book Fair at Junkudo

Currently, the Junkudo Ikebukuro store is hosting a book fair for Watanabe's works until April 24, 2026. This event showcases not only 'Consulting Industry Research' but also another title, 'Classes on Creating the Future Careers' from the Nihon Keizai Shimbun, across 15 displays. This fair provides the perfect opportunity for readers to engage more deeply with Watanabe's insights and find guidance essential for their career planning.

Author Insights: Hidekazu Watanabe

Hidekazu Watanabe, an esteemed figure in consulting circles, graduated from Hitotsubashi University and began his career at Sanwa Research Institute (now Mitsubishi UFJ Research & Consulting) in the strategy consulting division. His rapid ascent within the firm saw him become the youngest project leader, driving numerous new business development projects.

In 2008, he established Concord Executive Group, which has since become a pivotal player in supporting thousands of business leaders across various sectors, including consulting firms like McKinsey and BCG, investment banks, private equity funds, and startups in their career transitions. Watanabe's significant contributions to young talents include his role as a course director for 'Career Market Design' at the University of Tokyo, where he designs educational contents and lectures for third- and fourth-year students, as well as graduate students.

Appointed as a visiting professor at Hitotsubashi University in 2025, Watanabe is committed to educating the next generation of leaders through structured lessons that blend theory and practical knowledge of career design.

Conclusion

With the rise of AI and ongoing changes in business landscapes, Watanabe's work serves as a crucial resource for those seeking to adapt and thrive in the consulting sector. Whether a student or a mid-career professional, 'Consulting Industry Research' offers essential knowledge and strategies that could make all the difference in securing a successful career in consultancy.

By fostering a deeper engagement with readers through events like the ongoing book fair, Watanabe and Concord Executive Group are helping to pave the way for future business leaders, ensuring that they are well-equipped to tackle the challenges ahead.