Overview:
This role supports a U.S. state-level economic development initiative focused on strengthening investment and trade ties between Japan and the United States. The position leads in-market efforts in Japan to attract foreign direct investment and facilitate export growth across advanced industry sectors. It operates at the intersection of international business development, economic diplomacy, and cross-border corporate expansion.
Responsibilities
1. Investment Promotion (FDI)
Identify, engage, and cultivate Japanese companies considering U.S. market entry or expansion
Present competitive advantages to executives, industry stakeholders, and strategic partners
Build and maintain relationships with:
Government agencies
Industry associations
Embassy officials
Sector-specific organizations
Conduct proactive lead generation including outreach, qualification, follow-up, and project tracking
Arrange and participate in meetings, site-selection discussions, and investment briefings
Coordinate and host investor visits to the United States
Support investment seminars and inbound missions conducted in Japan
2. Trade Promotion (Export Assistance)
Conduct market research and develop sector-specific intelligence for U.S. exporters
Advise companies on Japanese business practices and market-entry strategies
Identify and screen potential distributors, agents, and strategic partners
Organize and support trade show participation, business-matching programs, and promotional events
Coordinate trade missions and delegation visits between Japan and the United States
3. Marketing & Representation
Develop and maintain Japanese-language marketing materials (brochures, presentations, sector sheets, videos, etc.)
Represent U.S. economic development interests at major industry exhibitions and conferences
Promote investment and trade initiatives to government agencies, academic institutions, and industry leaders in Japan
4. Reporting & Administration
Prepare regular activity reports summarizing outreach, meetings, lead progression, and outcomes
Track and manage leads in CRM systems
Participate in recurring coordination calls with stakeholders and project leadership
Requirements
Minimum 10 years of experience in one or more of the following:
FDI attraction
Trade promotion
International business development
Site selection
Government relations
Corporate strategy
Strong understanding of Japanese industrial sectors such as:
Automotive
Aerospace
Electronics
Semiconductors
Life sciences
Energy
Demonstrated ability to engage senior corporate executives and government officials
Proven business development and relationship management experience in Japan
Native-level Japanese and strong English communication skills
Ability to travel domestically within Japan and internationally
Preferred
Experience representing government entities, trade offices, or investment promotion agencies
Established network within Japanese corporate, government, and industry association communities
Knowledge of U.S. economic development processes, state-level incentives, or international site selection
Personal Attributes
Proactive, professional, and relationship-driven
Able to work independently while coordinating with international stakeholders
Strong cultural awareness and global business mindset
Exceptional organizational, analytical, and communication skills
Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously