Using Finance as a Bridge to Management Decisions

Shaping and driving the future of business — with a global perspective

－ What kind of work did you do before joining Crowe Watanabe Consulting?

After graduating from university, I joined a global financial institution where I was responsible for selling financial products to agency partners.
While I enjoyed helping those partners find products that addressed their clients’ needs, I realized that my involvement was indirect—I wasn’t participating in the core decision-making that drives a company’s management. Over time, I developed a strong desire to support business leaders closer to the heart of their strategic decisions.

－ Why did you decide to join Crowe Watanabe Consulting?

There were two key reasons.

First, I was drawn to the culture of autonomy and opportunity—a place where even young professionals can take initiative and be entrusted with responsibility. At Crowe Watanabe Consulting, if you raise your hand, you get the chance to take on new challenges, whether in training or in live projects.

Second, the global nature of the firm. As part of the Crowe Global network, there are opportunities for international assignments, cross-border projects, and daily use of English. In my current work, I often analyze the financial statements of overseas subsidiaries in English and prepare valuation reports for Japanese clients. Being able to combine language skills with financial expertise to deliver tangible value was what ultimately convinced me to join.

－ What have you noticed since joining the company?

Working here has made me realize that cross-border M&A will continue to grow in importance.

Through the Crowe Global network, we have seamless collaboration with overseas offices, which allows us to combine international insight with the financial, tax, and legal expertise I’ve been building since joining. This blend of knowledge helps me deliver meaningful value to our clients every day.

Continuous learning and output — staying client-focused in every action

－ What kind of work do you do now?

I belong to the Corporate Finance Division.

Currently in my third year, I have been involved in M&A execution since my first year and now mainly handle valuations and due diligence, which are core to our division’s work. Every project requires different expertise, so I make a conscious effort to continuously study and turn new knowledge into output.

In university, I specialized in finance—learning about risk and return, option pricing, and optimal capital structure. That foundation now helps me in valuation work, where assessing risk and determining fair value are crucial.

－ What does a typical day look like?

There isn’t a strict daily routine, as work varies depending on the project stage. I start the day by reviewing tasks, checking meeting schedules, and setting priorities. When multiple deadlines overlap, I sometimes work late, but I always aim to handle tasks efficiently and deliver quality work on time.

－ We heard you also participate in cross-departmental activities.

Yes—after work, I join a running club organized by members from both the advisory and tax divisions.

It’s a voluntary activity where we run around the Imperial Palace together. Even though it’s a relatively new initiative, participation spans across all age groups and departments, which creates a great sense of community. It’s a refreshing way to connect with colleagues outside of work, and I’ve noticed that it even improves my focus the next day. I plan to continue building both my stamina and my relationships through these activities.

－ What are your goals for the future?

As I gain experience across the M&A process, I want to refine my expertise in valuation.

An accurate and fair valuation—one that avoids bias toward either buyer or seller—is essential for the success of any deal. My goal is to become a trusted bridge between both sides, providing objective assessments that lead to sound decisions.

－ You joined through the potential-based recruitment program.
Do you have any advice for those considering the same path?

What I’ve learned is that the attitude to proactively seek learning opportunities makes all the difference.

In this field, technical terms often come up in discussions with clients and colleagues. It’s important not to leave anything you don’t understand unchecked—and even more, to think about how to explain complex ideas simply. Crowe Watanabe Consulting has a culture that rewards initiative.

If you start small, share your work early, and improve quickly through feedback, you’ll see yourself growing fast. It’s a cycle of “try, review, improve”—and that momentum leads to better client outcomes. Being proactive, involving others, and learning through collaboration is how both you and the company grow together.

－ Can you share a bit about how you approach your work?

Whenever I receive feedback from my supervisors, I take it as a chance to look at things from different perspectives. I constantly ask myself, “Why is this issue important for the client right now?”—and I strive to deliver proposals that go beyond what the client initially expects.

At Crowe Watanabe Consulting, our Core Purpose is to contribute to a more sustainable society through Creativity and Consulting. That means going beyond one’s past experience or area of expertise to think, “What is truly best for the client?” For me, that involves trying new industries and topics with a mindset of ‘create, deliver, refine’—and thinking deeply about which numbers or insights really influence a client’s decision-making.

－ Lastly, what message would you give to those considering joining Crowe Watanabe Consulting?

If you have the motivation, Crowe Watanabe Consulting gives you the freedom to challenge yourself. We have professionals from diverse backgrounds—some with prior experience in other industries—and everyone can leverage their strengths while tackling new challenges.
It’s also a very open, collaborative environment with little hierarchy between divisions. If you’re someone who wants to take ownership, learn continuously, and experience a wide range of industries, Crowe Watanabe Consulting will be a great fit.
We look forward to welcoming new colleagues who want to grow together.