Koji Takabayashi

CPA

Managing Director, Japan

Koji Takabayashi is the Managing Director of Horwath HTL Japan, overseeing the operations and project management of the Tokyo office, which serves clients nationwide.


Bio

Koji Takabayashi serves as the Managing Director of Horwath HTL Japan, where he oversees the operations and project management of the Tokyo office, providing advisory services to clients across the nation. Since assuming this role in April 2010, Koji has successfully led over 300 projects, cementing his reputation as a trusted expert in Japan's hospitality sector.

Koji’s expertise spans due diligence and feasibility studies for major hotels, serviced apartments, and condo-hotels, as well as operator selection and asset securitisation advisory services. He has played a pivotal role in portfolio transactions, rebranding projects, and advising financial institutions and hotel operators on asset securitisation. Additionally, his involvement in performance reviews and operational turnaround initiatives showcases his ability to deliver practical solutions to complex challenges.

Beyond his consulting work, Koji is deeply engaged in academia as a visiting professor for MBA programmes at Kyoto University and Hitotsubashi University, where he teaches hospitality consulting. His thought leadership extends to industry publications and conferences, where he has been a featured speaker and contributor.

Koji holds a Master of Management in Hospitality (MMH) from Cornell University, an MBA from Hitotsubashi University, and a Bachelor of Law from Hitotsubashi University. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) registered in Illinois, USA, and an active member of professional organisations, including the Hospitality Asset Managers Association Japan (HAMA Japan) and the Japan Lodging Industry Management Association (JLM), where he serves as a Director.

With his extensive experience, academic contributions, and professional certifications, Koji continues to be a driving force in Japan’s hospitality industry, delivering impactful solutions and fostering growth within the sector.