After a global career in finance and healthcare, Yumiko Kaizuka found her calling in international development. Now the Career Development Thematic Lead for the World Bank Group, she reflects on her path from the private sector to IFC, her proudest achievements, and the lessons she’s learned along the way.
What inspired you to work in international development? How did you get to where you are today? What has guided you along your career path?
Before joining IFC more than a decade ago, I worked in the private sector, in finance and healthcare, across major markets such as Tokyo, New York, and Singapore. When I joined IFC as an HR Business Partner (HRBP) in Washington, DC, I was inspired by the different dimensions of diversity at the World Bank Group. This passion has guided me throughout my career.
I began by supporting various IFC business groups, then transitioned to the Center of Expertise in Talent, Mobility, and Career Development over the past six years. Since then, I’ve expanded my skills in organizational development, coaching, HR analytics, project management, and change management through both formal education and on-the-job experience.
What is an achievement you are particularly proud of, and what has been a particularly difficult challenge you may have faced?
One of my proudest moments was being part of the team leading the launch of MyCareer, an AI-based platform for staff career development across the World Bank Group. This project was rewarding and challenging, and effective change management was a key success factor. Our next step is strengthening stakeholder engagement by clearly showing staff how the platform can help them grow their careers.
Another highlight was representing IFC at the annual conference of international financial institutions for the talent management network. Sharing IFC’s approach to integrated talent management and learning from other professionals around the world was inspiring. This experience also underscored the World Bank Group’s unique strength in scalability, an advantage that can also make global implementation of new HR initiatives challenging but deeply impactful.
Yumiko received a team award at IFC’s FY24 Corporate Award Ceremony in November 2024.
As a female professional working at the World Bank Group, what are your top three most important pieces of career advice?
Your career is yours. Do not compare it with others’. Everyone’s background, timing, and environment are different.
Build on your strengths. Knowing and developing what you do best will differentiate you and shape your legacy.
Embrace stretch opportunities. A mentor once told me early in my career that people grow when they’re challenged, and that lesson has guided me ever since.