We are delighted to announce the confirmed mentors for the second cohort.
Odgers has been participating as a pioneer partner in the UK government-led “MUSUBI Initiative” and operates a mentorship programme for the next generation of female leaders connecting Japan and the UK.
This cohort brings together senior executives from Japan and the UK to provide one-on-one mentoring for women in director-level roles and above, helping them prepare for C-suite and board positions while fostering cross-cultural collaboration. The programme includes online and in-person sessions, as well as an annual networking event at the British Embassy in Tokyo.
We would also like to express our sincere appreciation to Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc., our co-host of the programme, as well as to the Japan Society, and The British Chamber of Commerce in Japan (BCCJ) for introducing participants.
The second cohort of the programme is scheduled to run from April 2026 to September 2026.
The mentors are listed below in alphabetical order.
-
Ciara Middlehurst Co-CEO, Nuclear Transport Solutions
- Ian Prideaux Partner on Secondment, PwC Japan
- Jay Kimpton Former CEO Ralph Lauren - Japan, Korea & Australia, Ralph Lauren
- Mamiko Wakabayashi Founder & CEO, Strevia Inc.
- Marie-Claire Joyce UK Diplomat, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office
- Tony Doran Former Board Member, NSK Europe Ltd.
- Tove Kinooka Director & Co-Founder, Global Perspectives K.K.
Messages from the Mentors

Developing diverse talent is essential to building a strong and resilient business. Taking part in this mentoring programme has reinforced the importance of sharing our journeys openly - both the achievements and the challenges. By supporting and learning from one another, we can help empower more women to grow into leadership roles and shape long, fulfilling careers.

I am honoured & privileged to serve as a Mentor for the MUSUBI Mentoring Program, in partnership with the British Embassy in Tokyo. Supporting the advancement and visibility of Japan’s next generation of female leaders is both a privilege and a strategic imperative. As Japan enters a pivotal era of female leadership transformation, I look forward to working alongside exceptional women — leveraging our collective experience to expand their influence, sharpen their leadership acumen, and accelerate meaningful impact across industries.

In an era of rapid change and growing complexity, it is vital for the next generation of women leaders to unlock their potential and shape the future, driving the sustainable development of organizations and society. I look forward to walking alongside them in their challenges, learning from and inspiring by one another.

For me, mentorship is about investing in people. It’s about sharing what I’ve learned—mistakes, wins, and everything in between—so someone else can grow with a little more confidence. It’s not just about guidance; it’s about believing in someone and walking alongside them as they find their way. I’m delighted to be part of this programme—it’s a privilege to support and learn from such inspiring individuals.

The most important asset in an organisation is its people. Mentoring is not about providing the answers, it is about utilising knowledge and experience to guide and challenge the mentee to find & develop their own leadership style. The best learnings come from real life experiences, successes and failures. Go to the GEMBA, see the problem, listen to the people. It is an honour and privilege to support the Musubi Initiative in developing the next generation of business leaders.

The opportunity to connect with and learn from people outside your own organisation and culture is always valuable. As a mentor, I'm really enjoying sharing my experiences with my mentee, and updating my own thinking and perspectives by learning from her!

Ian Prideaux
Partner on Secondment, PwC Japan
To learn more about the Musubi mentorship programme, please also read Odgers Japan Partners with British Government to Launch Global Mentorship for Women in Leadership.
For enquiries or more information about the programme, please contact: MUSUBI Secretariat | jpmusubi@odgers.com