This role will serve as a key connector between global strategy and local execution—ensuring that Japan-specific insights and cultural relevance are embedded in all initiatives. This includes elevating athlete service, driving athlete integration, and shaping a compelling and competitive portfolio across both professional and amateur categories.
- Minimum 8 years of proven experience in Sports Marketing, Brand Marketing, or a closely related field.
- Bachelors degree or equivalent.
- Strong relationship-building skills with athletes, coaches, agents, and industry stakeholders.
- Experience in portfolio management, critical thinking, and negotiation.
- Deep understanding of Japanese sports culture, with the ability to craft locally resonant narratives.
- Strong knowledge of the sports landscape across channels, particularly in Running Track & Field.
- Demonstrated ability to translate athlete and industry insights into actionable sport marketing strategies.
- Familiarity with Nike’s sports and brand marketing functions is preferred.
- Strong oral and written communication skills (in both English and Japanese).
- Strategic thinker with a proactive, entrepreneurial approach to driving business impact. Ability to operate with clarity and agility in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Inclusive, adaptable, and solutions-oriented team player with a can-do attitude. Technical Proficiency Proficiency in MS Office, Keynote, and internal Nike systems.
WHAT YOU’LL WORK ONDetail of the key responsibilities are as follows:
- Proactively cultivate and maintain strong networks with athletes, amatur athletes, coaches, agents, teams, and internal stakeholders across Sports Marketing, Brand Marketing, SCI, Communications, NDDC, Nike Direct Stores, and Partner Sales teams.
- Lead athlete experiences and activations, especially in areas without direct brand support, using creative and resourceful approaches.
- Develop and execute athlete integration plans that align with Nike’s seasonal brand priorities and storytelling moments.
- Lead talent identification, invest/divest decisions, and endorsement contract negotiations to shape a competitive athlete portfolio.
- Partner with internal teams to ensure athlete partnerships support product, business, and marketplace strategies.
- Leverage performance data and market insights to inform decisions and measure impact.
- Ensure all athlete engagements comply with internal policies and external regulations.
- Manage promo product order/delivery based on key look and needs of the athletes every season
- Maintain accurate athlete data, manage system updates, and oversee budget forecasting and reporting.
- Provide regular updates to Japan and Global Sports Marketing leadership on athlete performance and partnership health
- Demonstrate a collaborative, growth-oriented mindset with a passion for sport and a commitment to Nike’s values.