#Japan #Tokyo #BeyoL OPS #BCG Alumni #SEVENRICH GROUP

BeyoL OPS: Redefining Student Engagement in Career Preparation

The pressure of launching into the corporate world can weigh heavily on students. A critical question often arises: "Is my approach to job hunting truly effective?" Amidst this uncertainty, KAT & Co., a company founded by alumni of the renowned Boston Consulting Group (BCG) in Meguro, Tokyo, collaborated with SEVENRICH GROUP to host BeyoL OPS. This innovative, hands-on workshop, held on July 28, successfully recorded a 100% satisfaction rate from participants.

Why Not End with Just Theory?

BeyoL OPS challenges the traditional selection process in consulting firms, which often revolves around hypothetical scenarios presented during recruitment assessments. Many preparations merely mimic these assessments rather than confront real-world challenges. However, the skills necessary for success extend beyond simply generating polished solutions; they include navigating real obstacles while engaging and mobilizing teams.

This workshop directly confronts the disconnection between preparation and reality. By positioning sponsoring companies in a client role and assigning experienced business leaders as mentors, participants tackle genuine business problems that these companies currently face, thereby moving beyond theoretical frameworks.

Mentorship from Experienced Leaders

Participants are not guided by external instructors; instead, they are mentored by active executives who have navigated the frontlines of business. Tomomi Nagatani, CEO and founder of KAT & Co., and Atsushi Futatsuki, CFO and founder, both seasoned veterans from BCG, provided continuous support to participants throughout the workshop day.

They have extensive experience assisting various sectors, including consumer goods and pharmaceuticals, in strategic development. Both leaders emphasize transforming theoretical knowledge into actionable insights, equipping students with the skills they will need after employment.

The Structure of BeyoL OPS

BeyoL OPS distinguishes itself from standard corporate seminars where passive listening prevails. Instead, most of the day’s agenda is dedicated to active thinking and continuous output refinement, with a heavy focus on mentorship sessions known as “wall hits” with industry leaders. Below is a snapshot of the rigorous schedule:

• - 10:00 AM: Kick-off
• - 10:15 AM: Explore real business challenges in teams
• - 10:30 AM: Work period #1
• - 11:40 AM: Mentorship session #1
• - 1:00 PM: Work period #2
• - 2:40 PM: Mentorship session #2
• - 3:00 PM: Work period #3
• - 4:40 PM: Mentorship session #3
• - 5:00 PM: Final output preparation
• - 6:00 PM: Final presentation to executives
• - 7:00 PM: Feedback and networking session

This high-density program encourages participants to engage meaningfully with mentors who guide them through each step. One participant remarked, “For the first time, I felt like I was actually facing a client.”

A Joint Exploration of Business Value

Sponsoring companies like SEVENRICH GROUP also expressed their appreciation for the workshop’s effectiveness. They remarked on being impressed by the depth of thought and quality of output from students. The experience presented new perspectives and insights, emphasizing the importance of fostering relationships that go beyond mere recruitment.

Students often expressed an eagerness to continue engaging with SEVENRICH GROUP through casual interviews and internships, signalling a shift from a traditional hiring focus toward collaborative value creation.

Advantages Beyond Recruitment

BeyoL OPS extends benefits beyond mere hiring activities, allowing companies to gain fresh insights from students’ perspectives, shaping future strategies. For students, it provides a platform for organic connections with potential employers, laying the groundwork for future collaborations.

Additionally, employees who participated noted the invigorating learning experience and the opportunity to gain insights into younger generations’ values and thought processes, thus reflecting on their approaches to business.

Upcoming Sessions and Company Involvement

Due to the overwhelming success and demand, KAT & Co. will be hosting additional BeyoL OPS sessions in July and August. Interested students can apply via the official LINE or through KAT & Co.’s contact methods. The program invites companies eager to create innovative forms of engagement and is currently seeking partners for future events. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between aspiring talent and businesses, fostering a collaborative environment that benefits both parties.

Conclusion

As BeyoL OPS continues to evolve, it stands as a testament to redefining how students prepare for their careers, emphasizing real-world experience and active collaboration over traditional recruitment methods. This unique approach not only helps students connect with potential employers but also shifts the narrative on recruitment to one of mutual growth and learning.