Winding Paths to Success: Chart a Career in Uncertain Times

An inspirational compilation of stories from successful Japanese professional women

In Winding Paths to Success: Chart a Career in Uncertain Times, experienced management consultant Nobuko Kobayashi delivers an engaging and insightful discussion of the professional and personal successes of senior Japanese women executives, academics, and entrepreneurs who started their career in the late ’80s to ’90s, the dawn of gender equity at work in Japan. You’ll discover how these remarkable people carved out a long and rewarding career in a challenging environment.

The author describes the substantial diversity of Japanese professional life, exploring the rich and varied histories of women who are often stereotyped and relegated to a one-size-fits-all story. Their creative navigation amid uncertainties inspires anyone who wishes to establish a career in the highly volatile world of today. You’ll also find:

• Personal and forthcoming stories from women executives
• Recommendations for public and private sector employers to further enhance diversity and inclusiveness in the workplace
• Individual strategies for crafting successful careers from a minority position

Perfect for those building a career, managers, executives, entrepreneurs, founders, and other business leaders, Winding Paths to Success is a must-have resource for aspiring and practicing business leaders in Japan and other countries.

NOBUKO KOBAYASHI is a partner at EY-Parthenon, a strategic consulting arm of EY. A Japanese and English bilingual professional based in Tokyo, she contributes opinions and columns regularly to Nikkei Asia, Japan Times and frequently appears on international media platforms such as the BBC. She holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and an MS/BS from the University of Tokyo.