Business Development Manager
CIC (Cambridge Innovation Center)
full-time
Posted on:
Location Type: Hybrid
Location: Tokyo • 🇯🇵 Japan
Visit company websiteJob Level
SeniorLead
About the role
- Building and deepening strategic relationships with key partners in Japan, including government entities, prefectures, corporations, universities, and other key players in the innovation ecosystem to identify and develop new business opportunities.
- Sourcing and developing new programs and partnerships that align with both the CIC Institute's broader programming portfolio and Japan Desk's mission to support Japanese entrepreneurs' US market entry, maintaining approximately a 50/50 split of focus across both teams.
- Providing strategic input to both the Director of CIC Institute and Head of the Japan Desk on program development, market trends, and partnership opportunities emerging from the Japanese market.
- Supporting program implementation with CIC Institute and Japan Desk team as needed, including connecting startups with mentors, coordinating with government partners, and facilitating introductions to relevant resources within CIC's network.
- Developing event programming and overseeing event execution to convene and promote the Japanese community in Boston by hosting events ranging from casual meetups to conferences, in collaboration with the Japanese Consulate and with other external partners both in Cambridge/Boston and in Japan.
- Managing the coordination of tours of CIC’s main campuses to promote awareness of CIC's innovation campuses and brand to potential partners and clients.
- Providing oversight to continued efforts to build a network of local experts who are knowledgeable about the Boston innovation ecosystem and eager to support startups and companies from Japan.
- Traveling as needed for business development activities, conferences, and partner meetings to represent both teams and identify new opportunities.
- Representing CIC at onsite and offsite programs, events, tours and speaking opportunities, serving as a key touchpoint for potential partners and clients interested in CIC's services and programming.
- Managing relationships with existing partners while continuously expanding CIC's network within Japan's innovation ecosystem.
- Coordinating effectively across time zones to ensure seamless communication and alignment between Japan-based partners and Cambridge-based teams.
Requirements
- At least 9+ years of professional experience, including at least 3 years of corporate experience working with Japanese companies
- Strong preference of a bachelor’s degree or significant relevant experience; advanced degrees welcome.
- Fluent in Japanese and English. Must be able to produce professional, high-quality business communications in both languages.
- Because this role is based in Tokyo, Japan this role will require regularly (i.e. 3-5 days per week) working outside of normal working hours (e.g. early morning and late evening) to accommodate US-based Japan Desk team and partners.
Benefits
- Competitive salary, adjusted to match your experience.
- Permanent contract.
- Laptop and mobile phone as your working tools.
- Access to global CIC locations.
- Commuting / transportation allowance.
Applicant Tracking System Keywords
Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.
Hard skills
business developmentprogram developmentevent programmingstrategic relationship managementmarket analysispartnership developmentnetwork buildingbilingual communication
Soft skills
strategic thinkingcross-cultural communicationteam coordinationrelationship managementorganizational skillsadaptabilityleadership
Certifications
bachelor's degreeadvanced degree