Reverse Mentorship Programme 2025 Announcement

Mentorship remains one of the most powerful ways for senior leaders and emerging professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and learn from one another.

Following the success of last year’s pilot, the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan is delighted to announce the launch of the Reverse Mentorship Programme 2025.

Designed as a true two-way exchange, the programme invites mentors and mentees to share perspectives across generations, industries, and experiences. Senior leaders bring their depth of leadership and strategic insight, while mentees offer valuable perspectives on emerging trends, technologies, and the evolving business landscape.

The programme will run for six months, commencing Thursday, 27th November. Full programme details, including practical guidance for first-time mentors, can be found below.

We are now inviting expressions of interest from leaders and aspiring professionals in the BCCJ network who wish to participate as mentors or mentees. The deadline to apply is Monday, 10th November.

How the Reverse Mentorship Programme Works

Each mentor begins by sharing a short profile, highlighting their areas of expertise and professional interests. Mentees are then invited to select up to three mentors they would most like to learn from, though final pairings are thoughtfully coordinated by the BCCJ team.

Matches are made with care — taking into account personal preferences, compatibility, and the potential for meaningful exchange. Once confirmed, the BCCJ will introduce each pair by email, followed by a kick-off meeting for all participants. Those unable to join the group session are welcome to arrange their first meeting separately.

From there, mentors and mentees are encouraged to connect at least once a month. Meetings can take place in person or online, with each pair free to shape their conversations and schedule according to what feels most natural and valuable. The BCCJ will remain on hand to provide guidance and suppport wherever needed.

Together, these exchanges form the heart of the programme — guided by curiosity, openness, and the shared desire to learn from one another.

Mentor criteria:

• Senior managers from BCCJ member companies or individual members.
• Committed to supporting and developing next-generation leaders outside their own organisation.
• Open to receiving feedback and new perspectives.
• We look forward to welcoming this year’s mentors and to fostering another cycle of meaningful exchange within the BCCJ community.

Mentee criteria:

• Mentees should be in the first few years of their career at a BCCJ member company, or be individuals identified by their company as likely to benefit from the programme. Please note that there is no age restriction for participation in the BCCJ Mentorship Programme.
• Maximum 4 from BCCJ Platinum members, 2 from BCCJ Corporate members, and 1 from BCCJ Entrepreneur member firms can participate at once. BCCJ Individual members are also welcome.
• Individuals should be selected by their employer or self-nominated, with a demonstrated potential to benefit from participation.
• Participants should note that this programme is designed for learning and growth, and not as a platform for job seeking.
   

To become a mentor, please click below:

2025 BCCJ Reverse Mentorship Programme - Mentor Application

To become a mentee, please click below:

BCCJ Reverse Mentorship Programme - Mentee Application Form

The deadline for applications is Monday, 10th November 12:00 JST.

To get the full download on this year's RMP, please click below:

2025 BCCJ Reverse Mentorship Programme - Outline

If you have any questions, need an offline application, or would like to talk directly with the BCCJ, please contact us at: [email protected]