Hiro Kokudai

Hiro Kokudai has a diverse work experience spanning multiple industries. Hiro began their career at Hitachi in 2008, where they worked as an Associate in International Business Development and Strategy Planning until 2013. During this time, they played a key role in cross-border M&A projects, including the acquisition of AnsaldoBreda S.p.A and majority shares of Ansaldo STS S. Then, from 2013 to 2016, they worked as a Senior Associate and Global Alliance in Strategy Planning at Hitachi.

In 2017, Hiro joined EBRD as an Associate Banker in the Power and Energy Utilities team. Hiro was responsible for structuring and executing transactions, particularly in the renewable energy, T&D, and new technologies sectors. Hiro also monitored and reported on the financial and operational performance of projects and SPVs.

Returning to Hitachi in 2018, Hiro held various roles, including Corporate Development Manager and Head of Corporate Partnerships and Planning. In these positions, they oversaw start-up investment and collaboration, managed cross-functional teams, and led due diligence and negotiation processes for investments and acquisitions. Hiro also played a significant role in constructing and refining the start-up scouting process, governance rules, and approval process for important investments and projects within the Railway Business Unit.

In 2022, Hiro transitioned to the role of Director of Growth Investment and Projects at Hitachi Rail, where they continue to drive investment initiatives and support strategic decision-making.

Hiro Kokudai completed a Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.) with a focus on Management/CSR at Waseda University from 2003 to 2007. In 2005-2006, Hiro participated in an exchange program at Beloit College. Hiro then pursued a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) with a concentration in Finance at Cambridge Judge Business School and the University of Cambridge from 2013 to 2014. Finally, Hiro obtained a Master of Public Administration (M.P.A.) in Economic Policy Management from Columbia | SIPA in 2016-2017.