The posting
About us
Since 2015, the FT has been part of the Nikkei Group, a respected Japanese media organisation with roots stretching back to 1876. Our Tokyo-based team is part of the integrated Nikkei-FT Asia Pacific Commercial Team, combining global insight with local expertise to support premium clients across the region. Located in Otemachi, Japan’s financial and corporate centre, our office puts us at the heart of business and economic life, enabling close relationships with key players in the market.
At the FT, curiosity thrives and ambitious thinking is rewarded. Here, you’re given the chance to reach millions, create work that matters and deliver impartial journalism in a polarised world.
In our warm, collaborative culture, you’ll connect with a diverse community of experts who support your growth, career aspirations and wellbeing.
Your future at the FT will be filled with opportunities that challenge and inspire you. With no fixed path, you’ll discover new skills and forge a career that can take you anywhere.
Build a newsworthy career at the FT.
Our commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion
We believe in the power of unique perspectives and want all voices in our organisation to be heard, respected and valued. A supportive workplace is one where employees feel they can be themselves and operate to their full potential. We are committed to removing barriers for everyone, with a focus on addressing those faced by underrepresented groups.
Opportunities at our Japan Office
We have about 30 professionals across both commercial and support functions, including advertising sales, subscription sales, marketing, customer services, customer success, as well as corporate functions such as People (HR) and Finance. We are looking to connect with dedicated individuals with strong commercial experience for upcoming vacancies across our teams.
Together, we deliver integrated commercial solutions that meet growing demand from Japanese businesses looking to expand globally. Our commercial team works closely with colleagues in editorial, product and marketing across Asia and the headquarters in UK to develop innovative advertising and subscription products tailored to the Japanese market.
Commercial Team Functions in Japan
- Advertising Sales: Building strong relationships with leading Japanese and multinational companies, agencies, and partners.
- Subscription Sales: Expanding the FT’s subscriber base among corporate and individual clients.
- Marketing & Marketing Support: Creating and implementing campaigns to enhance brand visibility and client engagement.
- Customer Services & Success: Ensuring excellent client experience and retention through proactive support.
- Sales operation & Administration Support: Ensuring the smooth execution of all sales activities by coordinating sales processes, maintaining accurate records, handling invoices and renewals, and supporting the full sales cycle from lead generation to contract completion.
What You’ll be Working On
- Developing and maintaining strong relationships with corporate clients across advertising, subscriptions, and marketing partnerships.
- Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities to drive revenue growth.
- Collaborating with internal teams to deliver tailored commercial solutions.
- Providing outstanding client service to ensure satisfaction and long-term partnerships.
- Monitoring market trends and competitor activities to inform strategic planning.
- Representing the FT at industry events and networking functions in Japan.
The Type of Experience We Are Looking For
We seek dynamic, results-driven professionals with a strong commercial mentality and deep understanding of the Japanese market. Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- Advanced Language Proficiency: Native speakers or non-native candidates with certified advanced business-level Japanese skills, alongside strong English communication abilities.
- Proven Corporate Sales and Marketing Experience: A successful track record in corporate sales, senior executive management, or marketing roles within Japan’s commercial environment.
- Experienced in sales and marketing operation support and processes
- Local Market Expertise: In-depth knowledge of Japan’s business culture, market dynamics, and a well-established professional network.
- Strong Business Sense: Ability to develop strategic client relationships, identify growth opportunities, and deliver tailored commercial solutions.
- Cultural Awareness and Adaptability: Sensitivity to local customs and business practices, with the agility to thrive in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.
What’s In It for You? Our Benefits
- Comprehensive remuneration package and performance-based incentive rewards salary and performance-based incentives.
- Robust health and wellness benefits.
- Flexible working arrangements supporting work-life balance.
- Access to world-class learning resources and leadership programs.
- A collaborative and inclusive culture that values diversity and innovation.
- The opportunity to work with a prestigious global brand with a strong presence in Japan and Asia Pacific.
For more details of the benefits offering at the Japan office please click the benefit pack attachment
Accessibility
We are a disability confident employer and Valuable 500 signatory.
Please let us know if you require any reasonable adjustments/personalisation as part of the application process or to enable you to attend an interview. If you would like to discuss your requirements or have any questions, email [email protected] and a member of our team will be happy to help.
Further information
At the FT, we embrace innovation and the use of technology and appreciate that individuals may leverage AI tools as part of their job application process. Whilst we are happy for you to use AI to assist with your application, it is essential that all information provided is authentic and accurately represents your skills, experience, and qualifications.
Candidates should be aware that the use of AI throughout the application process may be monitored to ensure a fair and transparent hiring process for all.
Please beware of fraudulent job postings and offers claiming to be from the Financial Times. All legitimate opportunities will direct you to apply through the official Financial Times careers site, and the FT will never ask for financial information, payments, or referrals to third parties during the hiring process. If you have any concerns about the legitimacy of a job posting or suspect any scam activity, please contact [email protected]
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