Prior to joining Kroll, Naoko advanced her career in law enforcement at the National Police Agency of Japan, where she served for more than 10 years, conducting intellectual crime investigations and counter-intelligence work. Previously, Naoko worked at the Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and took part in various diplomatic issues between Japan and the Korean Peninsula. During her tenure at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, she was seconded to Pyongyang in October 2002 as a member of the Japanese government-led North Korea Abduction Issue Research Team.
Naoko also worked as a consultant in Bain and Company Japan Inc., where she helped clients develop and implement their market entry strategies, portfolio strategies, and compliance programs.
Professionnal Experiences
- Fraud Investigations
Naoko has led various white-collar crime investigations, including information leakage, fraud, embezzlement, and corruption. She has also consulted with corporate clients to protect trade secrets and intellectual property. - Business Intelligence and Investigations
Naoko has led complex business intelligence assignments, including competitive intelligence, proxy fights, and litigation support. She has also assisted clients in asset recovery processes. - Complex Due Diligence
Naoko has significant experience in managing complex reputational due diligence across various industries and jurisdictions. Based on the business intelligence developed in the course of the due diligence, Naoko has provided strategic advice to corporate clients to mitigate potential risks.
Education, Certifications and Recognitions
- LLB, Kyoto University (Japan)
- MPA, John F. Kennedy School of Government, Harvard University
