Since graduating from UCL School of Management’s MSci Management Science programme earlier this year, Kaito has joined NRI (Nomura Research Institute)’s Tokyo Office as a Strategy Consultant within the Sustainability Division. In this role, Kaito has a particular focus on infrastructure development in South West Asia, and enjoys the diversity that his role offers.
We recently caught up with Kaito to find out more about his journey so far. He takes us through the ways in which our Management Science programme supported the development of his data and business-oriented mindset, as well as his navigation of the graduate job market. For Kaito, the opportunities and freedom of London have led to his desire to return one day, but for now, he is thriving in his sustainability-driven career in Tokyo and using his English proficiency to focus on the needs of a number of global projects.
can you tell us about yourself?
I am Kaito Mizukoshi, originally from Japan and having completed Management Science MSci at the UCL School of Management. Following my studies, I began my professional journey at Nomura Research Institute in Tokyo, where I transitioned into a role as a strategy consultant. My professional interests lie at the intersection of education, organisational transformation, sustainability and luxury commodities.
In addition to my work in consulting, I have pursued a career as a classical pianist, performing in a variety of concert settings after completing a short-term programme at the Mozarteum University. During my time at UCL, I also led UCLef, a student-led volunteering organisation that provided musical performances for socially disadvantaged communities.
My passion for innovation in classical music has led me to collaborate with artists in London, merging traditional music with digital art. Through these collaborations, I have performed in both the UK and Japan, striving to create more inclusive and immersive classical music experiences that resonate with diverse audiences.
tell us about your current role at nri
At NRI, I serve as a strategy consultant within the Sustainability Division, with a particular focus on infrastructure development in South West Asia. My role encompasses a wide range of responsibilities including conducting comprehensive industry research. This involves both secondary research and primary research, where I engage directly with industry leaders through interviews and on-site visits. Additionally, I handle data analysis and prepare detailed presentation materials for government briefings.
What I find particularly engaging is the diversity of tasks. While my primary focus is on sustainability, I often take on assignments outside of this domain, leveraging my English proficiency to address the needs of various global projects. This variety adds dynamism to my work and keeps me continuously challenged.
NRI’s close collaboration with the Japanese government as a leading think-tank also provides unique opportunities to participate in conferences attended by prominent industrial leaders. Being exposed to high-level discussions and global perspectives is both intellectually stimulating and deeply rewarding making my work here as a consultant a fulfilling and enriching experience.
how did you end up in this industry?
Despite my desire to remain in London, I ultimately made the decision to leave. The journey of job hunting as an international student was incredibly challenging. It was difficult not only to identify roles that genuinely aligned with my interests but also to secure positions within the companies I aspired to join. Rather than choosing a role I was not particularly passionate about simply to stay in London, I decided to prioritise career growth and meaningful experience. This led me to return to Tokyo to pursue a consulting position that aligned more closely with my professional aspirations.
That said, I aspire to return to London in the near future to further my career. The city’s cultural and ethnic diversity is something I deeply cherish, as it provides a welcoming environment free from the societal judgements I often encounter in East Asia. Also as someone deeply engaged in artistic pursuits, I find London to be an ideal place to immerse myself in its vibrant and dynamic art industry. It is a city where I feel truly comfortable and empowered to thrive, both personally and professionally.
tell us about your time studying management science at uclsom?
The skills and mindset I developed during my Management Science programme have been instrumental in preparing me for my current role. One of the most valuable aspects was cultivating a business-oriented mindset, which encompasses a deep understanding of business models, cost structures, and the broader mechanics of industries. This framework has provided me with the intuition and analytical approach necessary to quickly grasp and engage with discussions in a professional context.
Moreover, the programme’s quantitative focus has significantly contributed to my ability to handle data analysis tasks in my current position. As the business world becomes increasingly data-driven, having a strong foundation in computational thinking and proficiency in analytical tools has proven essential. The intensive training I received in leveraging data effectively allowed me to transition seamlessly into tasks that require both technical expertise and strategic insight.
The fourth year of the Management Science MSci programme was particularly impactful, as it included a mid-to-long-term business consulting project in collaboration with real clients. This hands-on experience provided invaluable insights into the practical realities of working as a business consultant. It also helped me develop the mental resilience necessary to navigate complex, long-term projects where clear solutions are often elusive. This experience offered a realistic preview of what a career in consulting entails equipping me with both the skills and mindset to tackle ambiguous challenges effectively.
can you tell us about your experiences of the graduate job market?
The graduate job market in London is currently highly competitive and unpredictable, particularly for international students. It’s not uncommon for students to apply to numerous roles and receive no offers, or to face last-minute offer withdrawal due to visa-related policy change.
My advice to current students is to plan strategically and start considering career options as early as possible during your time at UCL. While it may feel overwhelming to think about post-graduation plans soon after beginning university, it is far more daunting to approach graduation without a clear sense of direction. Begin exploring potential career paths by attending seminars and networking events. The UCL Career service team is an invaluable resource—consulting with career advisors or professors can provide fresh perspectives and help you discover opportunities aligned with your interests.
Once you have a general sense of what you might pursue, securing internships early is crucial. Internships not only allow you to build a competitive CV but also offer a chance to explore different industries, expand your network, and gain practical experience. Use these opportunities as a time to learn and immerse yourself in new challenges that will enrich both your personal and professional growth.
It’s also important to remain open-minded. While the ideal role may not come immediately, every opportunity has the potential to provide valuable experience and skills. Given the competitive nature of the job market, rejecting roles without serious consideration can be risky. Embrace opportunities as stepping stones that can lead to unexpected learning and growth.
Above all, take proactive steps toward shaping your career—don’t wait for opportunities to find you. Consistent effort and a willingness to challenge will position you well in a challenging market!
what have been your career highlights so far?
Although I have only been with the company for a few months, and a major highlight has yet to present itself, I take immense pride in being part of large-scale projects with the potential to shape the future of entire nations. Collaborating closely with senior colleagues who regularly interact with Japanese government officials and public servants has been both inspiring and intellectually stimulating. It offers a unique perspective on the intricate dynamics of policymaking and global affairs providing an exciting glimpse into the profound impact our work can have on the world stage.
Find out more about UCL School of Management’s BSc/MSci Management Science programme.