Clients & Testimonials
Clients
Testimonials
“Mike came recommended by our investor, Sequoia Capital, as a key resource to help us navigate the Japan and Asia Pacific market. Partnering with Gradient Consulting proved invaluable—within 12 months, we achieved a 2.5x return on investment. Thanks to Mike’s extensive network and strategic introductions, we secured multiple customers in our target industries within just 5 months. Beyond acquiring customers, Mike played a pivotal role in deepening these relationships. His expertise and hands-on approach have been instrumental in driving our success in the region, with a particular focus on Japan.”
Charles Wong
Bifrost AI, CEO
“Before working with Mike, ClimateAi saw interest from Japan but needed the right strategy and connections to turn that interest into real traction. We wanted to accelerate customer acquisition, build a strong presence, and navigate the complexities of the Japanese market. Mike quickly became an invaluable partner—leveraging his deep network, guiding us through the sales process, and positioning ClimateAI as a trusted player in Japan. Beyond being a GTM leader, Mike is a true thought partner. He helped us think through how our top use cases would apply to Japan, sharpening our focus on the most promising opportunities.”
– Will Kletter
ClimateAi, COO
“Gradient Consulting’s expertise in Japan has helped us build our business. Their strong relationships and deep track record have helped us increase our pipeline and advance many opportunities. We now have a deal flow of over 15 opportunities. I refer to Mike as our ‘secret weapon’ and our 'boots on the ground'. With his help we already have a robust reputation and have signed a top 15 company in Japan with many others on the horizon. We are very happy with our collaboration with Gradient Consulting and the Japan business we are building together.”
Adam Rice
ClimateAi, Vice President of Sales
“We wanted to expand into the Korean market for our Ambient solution but didn’t have the local relationships. Mike opened doors at the highest levels of government and the military, giving us access that would have taken much longer to achieve on our own. Thanks to his network and expertise, we are now poised for success in Korea.”
Dr. Anshu Roy
Rhombus Power, CEO
“In our journey to expand the horizons of our autonomous construction business in Japan, we made the decision to partner with Gradient Consulting. Under the guidance of Mike and his team, we have navigated the Japanese business practices with expertise. Their contributions have been valuable in bridging the gap between our teams in the US and Japan, fostering a synergy. Mike, in particular, has shown the ability to work hand-in-hand with our team members, driving forward our mission to deliver exceptional value to our customers.”
Bibhrajit Halder
SafeAI, Founder & CEO
“When I first met Mike while at Deloitte Consulting in 2010, I was at Palantir and we collaborated for him to lead the first Palantir project at Deloitte which was for the U.S. government. Many years later, I introduced him to the founder of a startup and under Mike’s leadership as the Head of APAC, the Asia Pacific region became the leading region for the company. Mike has dedicated many years to Asia and has developed an approach that is a valuable resource for startups looking to enter and expand in the region.”
Trae Stephens
Founders Fund, Partner
“We thoroughly enjoyed working with Mike while he led the Japan and APAC business of one of our portfolio companies and were so impressed to watch him close deals across commercial and government as well as build successful long term partnerships with local Japan and APAC blue chip companies. We’ve continued to enjoy working with him and his team at Gradient Consulting and are confident that their experience will be a great resource for their clients.”
Marcus Otsuji
Geodesic Capital, Japan Country Manager
“Gradient Consulting provides an excellent option for CEOs, CROs, and heads of sales looking to accelerate revenue in Japan and the broader Asia Pacific region. Mike is an experienced operator, and his team excels at navigating relationships, unlocking opportunities, and avoiding common pitfalls.”
John Kim
Amasia, Cofounder & Partner
“Mike and Gradient Consulting stand out among the few who possess the skills and experience to support startups to scale and grow revenue. His unique experience of working across and living in Asia Pacific, Japan, and the U.S. qualifies Mike to understand what’s needed to drive business in-line with U.S. leadership expectations, while also respecting the nuances of successful business practices in Asia Pacific and Japan.”
Craig Tegel
Founder of People Make the Difference,
Former Adobe President of Japan & Asia Pacific
“Mike has a strong commitment to applying the principles of performance and sports psychology to winning in the realm of business. We delved into the significance of visualization and creating everything twice, first in imagination and then in reality. In my work with him, I’ve seen him turn the imaginary into concrete success by achieving and surpassing the large revenue goals set before him.”
George Mumford
Teacher and pioneer in sports psychology and performance (Phil Jackson’s ‘Secret Weapon’ to winning eight NBA Championships, helped Michael Jordan transform his leadership, and taught Kobe Bryant to “just be”)
Are you a Founder, CEO, CRO, or Head of Sales ready to transform your Japan, Korea, and Asia Pacific Growth Strategy?
Let's discuss your specific goals and challenges. Book a free 30-minute consultation where we'll explore:
Your current situation and objectives in Japan, Korea, and Asia Pacific markets
How my proven approach can be tailored to your startup
What success could look like for your business in the next 6-12 months