Keisuke

Keisuke is a Vice President of the Real Estate department in GIC’s Japan office, handling both investment and asset management. His daily responsibilities encompass a range of activities, including meetings with internal and external stakeholders, conducting underwriting for potential opportunities, and preparing documents for the investment committee for their approval. He actively engages in networking within the real estate industry to source for attractive deals for the organisation.  

Outside of work, Keisuke prioritises spending quality time with his family. During his downtime, he enjoys planning for overseas trips, which serve as a source of energy for his workweek.  

Why did you decide to join GIC?

I made up my mind to join GIC when I saw an article of the Seibu Prince portfolio, which is remarkable and historic deal in the Japan real estate market. Even amidst of Covid pandemic when future rebound in hotel performance was uncertain, GIC decided to invest in the portfolio which is a testament that GIC can provide a long-term capital that could maximize intrinsic value over time. 

Few companies can offer employees such a rare opportunity in the market. GIC is one of a few companies who has built good credibility through 30+ years of investment track record in Japan and the team on the ground as well as the investment committee have mentality to take adequate investment risk through analyses from various angles.  

In addition, during the interview, I felt GIC colleagues are genuinely nice and respectful to others, which is a key attribute for a great workplace. 

What does your typical workday look like?

I start my day following the latest industry news and replying to emails. During the day, I usually have meetings with both internal and external parties, and this would include real estate brokers who would introduce us to new investment opportunities. If I find a particularly interesting opportunity, I will make a preliminary underwriting to gauge whether it would worth pursuing further. Based on my preliminary underwriting, I will further discuss internally and fix our pricing and other conditions to secure deal exclusivity. Once we obtain exclusivity, deal team work together with internal supporting teams as well as external stakeholders to close transaction. I usually have dinner with external parties such as real estate brokers, competitors, friends in the industry once or twice a week to gain market knowledge. Collecting market information through reliable sources is crucial to secure great deals when you are doing investment in the private market. 

What do you like most about working here?

I enjoy discussion with my seniors and colleagues on investment strategies and opportunities. Given the compelling reputation of GIC, we have access to appealing opportunities which most companies do not especially on large and complex deals. The teamwork and cooperative mindset within GIC help us to advance these deals effectively.  

How would you describe the learning & development culture at GIC?

Since joining GIC, I have been exposed to various asset classes that were entirely new to me. For instance, I was appointed as an asset manager of three luxury hotels in Japan operated by a well-known global hospitality operator. Given the nature of operational asset, an asset manager is required to make sound discussion and provide appropriate direction with the operator to maximize profitability. As a long-term investor, we sometimes decide to incur major capital expenditures to boost top line and profitability where necessary, and I experienced major guest room renovation projects in two hotels in Japan as a part of the deal team. Few people in this industry can earn such experience, and I find immense satisfaction in my role as a real estate investment professional at GIC. 

What you should know before joining GIC

GIC can provide various investment opportunities which few peers can provide and surely satisfy your intellectual curiosity. If you are ready to stretch yourself and challenge new fields, GIC would be one of the best workplaces.