Summary

Arif Iqball is an ICF Master Certified Coach (MCC), former Global CFO, and Professor of Leadership and Strategic Management at Doshisha University’s Global MBA Program. He works with senior executives navigating complexity, helping them sharpen strategic judgment, expand influence, and lead with clarity, composure, and authenticity.

With more than 25 years of experience at the highest levels of international business, Arif brings a distinctive blend of executive credibility, academic insight, cross-cultural perspective, and coaching depth.

Coaching Style

Arif coaches leaders operating in demanding, high-consequence environments. His approach is direct, thoughtful, and highly tailored, integrating challenge, reflection, and practical application.

Clients value his ability to connect business realities with deeper shifts in leadership effectiveness, resulting in meaningful gains in decision-making, executive presence, stakeholder influence, and personal impact.

Professional Experience

Arif’s executive career spans senior leadership roles across global enterprises in multiple industries, including service as Global Chief Financial Officer and Corporate Senior Vice President of Benesse Holdings, a US$5 billion publicly listed Japanese company. His broader leadership experience includes senior roles at Ford, Delphi, Avon, Becton Dickinson, and McCann Worldgroup.

He has also served on the boards of more than 15 companies across Japan, China, and the United States, bringing broad experience in governance, transformation, and leadership across cultures and industries.

In parallel with his coaching work, Arif serves as Professor of Leadership and Strategic Management at Doshisha University’s Global MBA Program in Kyoto, Japan.


Qualifications
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Arif holds the Master Certified Coach (MCC) credential from the International Coaching Federation and is a Certified Integral Coach® through New Ventures West. He is also an Advanced Certified Practitioner with Hogan Assessments.

His additional professional training includes work with Marshall Goldsmith, Korn Ferry, Aletheia Coaching, and the NeuroLeadership Institute.

He holds an MBA in International Business and a Master’s degree in Asian/Japanese Studies from the University of Michigan, a Master’s degree in Manufacturing Engineering from Northwestern University, and has completed executive education at Wharton and MIT.

Personal Interests

Outside his professional work, Arif is a passionate traveller and photographer who has explored more than 60 countries. His photography has been published internationally.

He has also established a philanthropic endowment dedicated to supporting the mental health of young adults.