Representative Director - Japan

About the role

In this pivotal role, you will spearhead the strategic direction and execution of investment initiatives across the Japanese market, driving sustainable growth and market penetration. You will own the end-to-end management of business development activities, cultivating deep, trust-based client relationships with founders, corporate partners, and financial institutions. This position demands rigorous oversight of compliance frameworks to ensure all operations adhere strictly to local regulations and best practices in Japan. You will be the primary architect of establishing a formidable Toogeza presence and expanding our footprint within the Japanese financial ecosystem. Your leadership will directly influence revenue generation and the successful execution of high-impact transactions. You will foster a culture of innovation and accountability within your team, ensuring alignment with the global investment thesis. This role requires a proactive stance in identifying emerging trends and translating them into actionable investment theses for the Japanese context. You will act as a key liaison between the local market and global headquarters, ensuring strategic coherence and operational excellence.

Key facts

What you'll do

Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to identify high-potential investment opportunities within the Japanese technology and IT sectors.

Develop and execute a robust business development strategy aimed at expanding Toogeza's network of founders, corporations, banks, and local funds.

Establish and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key stakeholders, including senior executives, board members, and industry influencers.

Lead the entire deal lifecycle from initial sourcing and valuation through exhaustive due diligence, meticulous negotiation, and seamless transaction closing.

Champion the origination of new investment opportunities by leveraging an extensive professional network rather than relying solely on existing pipelines.

Ensure strict adherence to Japanese governance standards, fostering a culture of consensus building and effective stakeholder engagement.

Navigate the complex landscape of Japan's legal and regulatory environment, with a specific focus on the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) and all compliance standards.

Provide strategic guidance and mentorship to junior team members, building, leading, and retaining a high-performing investment team.

Represent Toogeza at the highest levels, participating in board meetings and influencing strategic decisions while demonstrating deep cultural sensitivity.

Conduct frequent travel across Japan to engage with partners, perform on-ground due diligence, and attend industry events.

Occasionally travel to Toogeza's global headquarters to align with international leadership and strategic initiatives.

Maintain detailed documentation and reporting on market intelligence, pipeline progress, and investment performance.

Act as the primary point of contact for all investment-related inquiries, ensuring timely and accurate communication.

Drive the implementation of risk management and compliance protocols to safeguard the firm's interests and reputation.

Requirements

You must possess a minimum of 10 to 15 years of cumulative experience in asset management, investment banking, corporate development, or corporate strategy.

Your experience must include hands-on involvement in executing transactions and investments within the Japanese market.

You must have at least 5 years of proven experience in a senior leadership role with clear accountability for profit and loss, pipeline targets, and team leadership.

You must have in-depth, specialized knowledge of the IT and Technology sectors within the Japanese context.

You must demonstrate a proven ability to originate new investment opportunities by actively networking with founders, corporations, financial institutions, advisors, and local funds.

You must have a solid, documented track record of managing the complete deal execution process from initial screening through valuation, due diligence, negotiation, and closing.

You must possess comprehensive familiarity with Japanese governance practices, including consensus building and complex stakeholder engagement processes.

You must have a comprehensive understanding of Japan's legal and regulatory framework concerning investments, specifically the Financial Instruments and Exchange Act (FIEA) and all compliance standards.

You must be a current resident of Japan, ideally holding Japanese nationality, and be based in Tokyo with a willingness to travel domestically and internationally as required.

Practical notes

This role is based in Tokyo, Japan, and requires frequent travel within the country. The compensation package is competitive and commensurate with experience. Candidates must be eligible to work in Japan and possess a strong understanding of the local market dynamics.

Practical notes

Hours: Standard business hours with flexibility for market demands and international calls.

Travel: Frequent travel required within Japan and occasional travel to headquarters.

Visa: Candidate must be eligible to work in Japan without requiring company sponsorship.

Deadline: Applications must be submitted by the date specified in the official announcement.