Cross-border M&A Advisory with Insight and Integrity
We provide advisory services for domestic and international companies, including business succession, strategic M&A, and support for overseas companies entering the Japanese market.
Drawing on extensive international experience and a broad global network, we specialize in cross-border engagements connecting Japan with global markets.
Services
M&A Advisory
Advisory services for domestic and international companies, including sole proprietors, covering target sourcing, valuation, negotiation support, and end-to-end transaction management.
Business Succession Support
M&A and succession planning for companies without designated successors, with carefully tailored advice aligned with the intentions of business owners.
Cross-border M&A / Japan Market Entry
Research, deal sourcing, and matchmaking for overseas companies seeking to acquire Japanese businesses, with English-language support and strong networks across Asia and North America, as well as in-market business support in Japan.
Strategic M&A & Growth Advisory
Advisory services on leveraging M&A as part of mid-term growth strategies, aligned with clients’ long-term business objectives.
Profile
Kosei Kobayashi, President & CEO
Kosei Kobayashi earned a B.A. in Economics from Keio University (1987) and completed graduate studies in Journalism at New York University, School of Professional Studies (1998).
He began his career at The Sanwa Bank (now MUFG Bank), engaging in international finance in Tokyo, the International Division, and the New York branch. His responsibilities covered a broad range of international financial activities for governments and corporations across Asia, the United States, and Latin America, allowing him to gain early hands-on experience in global business practices, including management advisory engagements.
In 1996, he joined Sekai Bunka Publishing, Inc., serving as a New York–based executive officer overseeing international editorial coverage and sales for multiple publications, while collaborating with leading global luxury brands. After returning to Japan, he held cross-functional responsibilities spanning advertising, editorial, and finance, accumulating broad management experience.
In 2016, he founded KK Holdings Inc., providing M&A advisory, business succession support, international marketing, and Japan market entry assistance for domestic and overseas companies. Drawing on his long-established international network and diverse professional background, he specializes in cross-border engagements connecting Japan with global markets.
Since 2020, he has served as a Board Member of the International House of Japan, and since 2022 as Managing Director, where he is also involved in international and cultural exchange initiatives, fundraising, and community building.
Network & Affiliations
Key Roles & Appointments
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Senior Advisor, overseas investment advisory firm
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Managing Director, International House of Japan (Development & Membership)
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Managing Director, Value Creation Forum 21
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Trustee, Grew Bancroft Foundation
Professional Memberships & Networks
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Japan–U.S. relations and international exchange organizations
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Asia-Pacific policy, business, and intellectual networks
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University alumni leadership and advisory networks
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Major private membership clubs in Tokyo
Maintains a broad and diverse network across finance, culture, education, and public policy, both in Japan and internationally.