About the company
Our client is an international table-tennis brand dedicated to developing high-quality equipment and products for players of all levels. With a strong focus on innovation, performance and design, the organisation combines specialist sporting expertise with a global, collaborative outlook.
This is an opportunity to join a growing team in Japan and contribute to products that directly influence the experience of athletes, clubs and enthusiasts. The company values customer insight, technical excellence and close collaboration across product, commercial and international teams. Based in Tokyo, you will work in a dynamic environment where your ideas can help shape the future of table-tennis equipment.
What the job entails
As Manager, Product Development, you will lead the development and advancement of table-tennis products for the Japanese market and beyond. You will help identify market opportunities, translate player and customer needs into product concepts, and manage projects from initial idea through to launch.
Your responsibilities will include coordinating product development activities, working with internal and external stakeholders, monitoring timelines and quality, and ensuring products meet commercial, technical and brand expectations. You will also contribute to product planning, market research, competitive analysis and ongoing portfolio improvement.
The role requires a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution. You will work closely with colleagues across product, marketing, sales and international teams, helping to strengthen the company’s position through compelling, relevant and high-performing products.
Key requirements
Experience in product development, product management or a closely related field, ideally within sporting goods, consumer products or a technical product environment.
Strong understanding of product lifecycles, from market research and concept development through to launch and post-launch evaluation.
Genuine interest in table tennis and a good understanding of players’ needs, equipment performance and market trends.
Proven ability to manage multiple projects, priorities, deadlines and stakeholders effectively.
Strong commercial awareness, with the ability to connect customer insight and technical considerations to business objectives.
Excellent communication and relationship-building skills across internal teams, suppliers and external partners.
Analytical and structured approach to research, competitor monitoring and product decision-making.
Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within an international and collaborative organisation.
Professional fluency in Japanese and English would be highly advantageous for working across local and international teams.
A proactive, adaptable and quality-focused approach, with a clear commitment to delivering products that create value for customers.