Business Development Executive

Discipline: Additional Areas
Salary: On Application
Contact name: Peter Barry

Contact email: peter.barry@principlehr.com
Job ref: 3755
Published: about 23 hours ago

Business Development Executive – Tokyo

Location: Tokyo, Japan (Hybrid – 3 days in office, 2 from home)
Contract: Initial 3-year fixed term, with potential to extend
Fluency Required: Japanese & English
Travel: Domestic travel across Japan; limited international travel (approx. 10%)
Salary & Benefits: Competitive salary with local benefits in line with compliance (details on request)

Are you a commercially minded business development professional who thrives on strategic sales and building senior relationships? We’re hiring a Business Development Executive to represent a high-profile European investment agency in Tokyo.

This is a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of Japan–Europe business relations, working with C-Level decision-makers in some of the world’s most dynamic and forward-thinking companies. You’ll be part of a high-performing global team shaping the next wave of international investment into Europe.

What you’ll do:

  • Identify and engage growth-stage and established Japanese companies, particularly in:

    • Financial Services

    • Advanced Engineering

    • The Green Economy

  • Build and maintain strong relationships with senior executives at enterprise level

  • Develop and manage a pipeline of inward investment opportunities

  • Deliver impactful board-level presentations to showcase the value of setting up in Europe

  • Work with international teams to tailor sector strategies and marketing propositions

  • Facilitate senior site visits and support post-approval implementation

  • Represent the agency in Tokyo, engaging across the wider business and government ecosystem

About You:

  • 7+ years’ experience in international B2B enterprise sales, business development, or strategic account management

  • Fluent in Japanese and English, with the ability to influence and negotiate in both

  • Excellent relationship builder with strong commercial instincts

  • Comfortable engaging at C-Suite level and influencing complex decisions

  • Deep understanding of business culture and commercial dynamics in Japan

  • Knowledge of key sectors (Financial Services, Engineering, Green Economy) is a strong advantage

  • Familiarity with Ireland or European FDI landscape is beneficial

This role is for someone who sees business development not as a transaction, but as a catalyst for strategic growth on a global scale.