AIM B2B is a dedicated marketing and communications agency in the Custom Media group with a relentless focus to successfully guide B2B brands in Asia’s complex markets. Based in innovative, globally connected Tokyo and backed by decades of media experience, AIM B2B is set to redefine the landscape of B2B PR and marketing through a unique blend of strategic insight, creative storytelling, and a results-driven approach.
We are seeking a strategic Business Development Manager to spearhead growth for our "Japan-to-Global" portfolio. Your mission is to identify ambitious Japanese B2B companies—particularly in sectors like AI, healthcare, manufacturing and technology—and partner with them to launch their brands onto the global stage.
You will lead consultative sales conversations that bridge the gap between Japanese corporate goals and international market realities. This role requires a blend of high-level strategy, "hands-on" outbound prospecting, and a deep understanding of how to translate Japanese innovation into compelling global narratives.
Must-Have
- Experience: 5+ years in B2B sales or business development, ideally within an agency or consultancy.
- Track Record: Proven ability to hit revenue targets through consultative selling.
- Language: Native or near-native Japanese (to lead HQ-level conversations) and English fluency (to collaborate with the internal global team).
- Local Expertise: Based in Tokyo with a deep understanding of Japanese corporate culture and decision-making processes.
- Strategic Skills: Strong proposal writing, deal management, and negotiation skills.
Nice to Have
- Sector Expertise: Experience selling into Manufacturing, Fintech, or Technology.
- International Insight: Knowledge of SE Asian, US, or European B2B market dynamics.
- Marketing Savvy: Familiarity with ABM, demand gen, or performance marketing.
Key Responsibilities:
1. Strategic Pipeline Growth (Japanese Outbound)
- Targeting: Identify and prioritize Japanese B2B "champions" (ICP) in high-growth sectors such as AI, Technology, and Manufacturing looking to export their expertise.
- Outreach: Build and execute account plans and outreach sequences targeting C-suite and Marketing leads at Japanese company headquarters.
- Lead Conversion: Manage a mix of outbound prospecting (online, networking, events) and inbound lead conversion.
2. Global Market Solution Design
- Consultative Selling: Run discovery calls to diagnose the unique challenges Japanese firms face when entering markets like SE Asia, North America, or Europe.
- Integrated Solutions: Translate client expansion goals into integrated B2B marketing plans, including global PR, cross-border content strategy, and Account-Based Marketing (ABM).
- Pitch Leadership: Lead the pitch process, coordinating with internal creative and strategy teams to ensure proposals resonate with both the Japanese HQ and global benchmarks.
3. Relationship & Market Presence
- Stakeholder Management: Build long-term relationships with senior decision-makers at target Japanese accounts.
- Ecosystem Building: Manage relationships with trade associations, export partners, and global platforms that support Japanese outbound business.
- Thought Leadership: Represent AIM B2B at industry events and host webinars focused on Japanese global competitiveness.
4. Sales Operations & AI Integration
- CRM Hygiene: Own the HubSpot pipeline, ensuring accurate forecasting and activity logging.
- AI Efficiency: Strategically use AI tools for market research, account planning, and drafting outreach to improve speed and quality.
What Success Looks Like
- Global Pipeline: Consistent creation of qualified opportunities from Japanese HQs eyeing global markets.
- Win Rate: High conversion from discovery to close through tailored, "Japan-to-Global" value propositions.
- Market Influence: Establishing AIM B2B as the go-to agency for Japanese firms wanting to win overseas.
Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field.
If you're a driven professional eager to work with companies that are revolutionizing the world, and you're excited to inspire and be inspired by an amazing team, we'd love to hear from you!
Please apply with a cover letter to careers@custom-media.com explaining what about this position appeals to you. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview. No telephone calls please.
Our agency is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.
9:30am to 6:30pm Monday to Friday
Work from home and / or office flexibility
Attractive salary negotiable based on experience
Professional career and life coaching, training, mentoring
Generous company share appreciation rights scheme
Full exposure to all aspects of our business
Network of established professionals and senior leaders
Friendly, comfortable environment at a central office in Kamiyacho
Transport allowance
Work from home allowance
Social insurance and benefits
Paid vacations
Saturdays and Sundays, National Holidays in Japan, Paid Vacation