Trade Marketing Specialist – Japan
Overview
A global consumer goods company is seeking a Trade Marketing Specialist to strengthen brand presence in Japan. This role will focus on delivering outstanding consumer experiences at key touchpoints through execution, leadership, and program development. The position works closely with local and global marketing teams, sales teams, and retail partners to ensure consistent coordination of activities. The successful candidate will balance strategic planning with hands-on operational responsibilities, including point-of-sale (POS) execution and stock management.
Education
Bachelor’s degree required, preferably in Marketing or a related discipline.
Qualifications & Skills
3–5 years of experience in trade marketing or marketing within consumer goods, premium, or multinational companies.
Proven success in developing consumer touchpoints such as events, campaigns, and POS materials.
Strong project management skills, with experience managing multiple stakeholders and cross-functional teams.
Demonstrated ability to plan and execute marketing programs that support sales targets.
Experience managing marketing budgets.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (PowerPoint, Excel, Word); experience with design tools (Illustrator, Photoshop, CAD, InDesign) is a plus.
Fluent in both Japanese and English (spoken and written).
Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with strong analytical and proposal-building abilities.
Highly organized, detail-oriented, and adaptable to a dynamic environment.
Experience working with external vendors and agencies.
Key Responsibilities
Lead projects to strengthen brand presence in line with consumer shopping journeys.
Coordinate closely with global marketing, local sales, and cross-functional teams.
Develop, implement, and monitor trade marketing plans and budgets across multiple channels.
Plan and execute retailer campaigns and events to increase awareness and conversion.
Propose, design, and deliver market-wide and account-specific activities in collaboration with sales.
Track and measure marketing initiatives to improve effectiveness.
Lead in-store marketing execution and manage local production of marketing materials.
Oversee creation and allocation of POS materials.
Support visual merchandising for new store openings or renewals.
Contribute to the creation of product detail pages and landing pages for retailer websites.
Conduct monthly competitor and retailer research, including store visits.
Lead showroom development projects.
Manage trade marketing budgets and CAPEX.
Recommend and implement new marketing initiatives to support business growth.
Analyze retailer performance and sales data to guide decision-making.