Introduction: Our client, a globally recognized affordable luxury brand, is seeking a highly skilled and strategic Country Manager/Market Head for their operations in Japan. This role will oversee all market functions, including Wholesale, Retail, Marketing, and HR, with the goal of driving business growth while maintaining the brand’s reputation as an affordable luxury leader in the market.

About the Role: The Country Manager/Market Head will be responsible for the overall performance of the brand in Japan, ensuring that market operations align with global strategies and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs). This leadership role will require a deep understanding of the Japanese market and consumer behavior, and a hands-on approach to managing various business functions, while building strong relationships with key stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage market operations in Japan, achieving revenue, LFL (Like for Like), and KPI targets.
• Develop and execute policies and strategies to meet both short- and long-term business goals.
• Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts, and reports, presenting them to regional and global executives.
• Optimize resources, including human capital and technology, to meet market objectives.
• Oversee financial expenditures, ensuring proper resource allocation for business strategies.
• Select, hire, and develop senior management, setting clear reporting lines and delegating responsibilities effectively.
• Foster a high-performance culture, motivating and engaging staff across all levels.
• Build and nurture strong relationships with O&O, franchise, and multi-branded partners.
• Represent the brand at key events, conferences, and media engagements, enhancing visibility and strengthening relationships with customers, partners, and industry leaders.
• Continuously monitor and evaluate performance to ensure alignment with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant laws, ethical standards, and corporate policies in Japan.
• Execute the global brand strategy while adapting it to local market conditions, ensuring alignment with Japan’s consumer preferences and retail landscape.
• Ensure the proper allocation of resources according to the agreed business plan, with prior authorization for any reallocation.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs):

• Revenue growth
• Like-for-like (LFL) performance
• Conversion rates
• Operational expenditure (OPEX) control

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree required; Master’s degree preferred.
• Experience: Minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience in brand management and wholesale/retail operations, particularly in multinational companies or the luxury/affordable luxury sector.
• Core Skills:
• Deep understanding of Japan’s wholesale/retail market, consumer behavior, and the affordable luxury segment.
• Proven track record in P&L management and strong financial acumen.
• Experience in successfully localizing and building a global brand in Japan.
• Strong leadership abilities, with experience in building and scaling business operations.
• Ability to effectively manage cross-functional teams and deliver results.
• Language Skills: Fluent in Japanese (both verbal and written) and English. Proficiency in additional languages, such as Portuguese, is a plus.
• Other Skills:
• Self-motivated, results-driven, and accountable for market outcomes.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to build relationships with key stakeholders.
• Strong decision-making skills and a strategic mindset.

Why Apply: This is an exciting opportunity to lead the operations of a renowned affordable luxury brand in the Japanese market. As the Country Manager/Market Head, you will have the autonomy to shape the business strategy, drive growth, and influence the brand’s position in a competitive market. This role offers a dynamic and fast-paced environment where you can make a significant impact on the brand’s success. If you are a passionate leader with a deep understanding of the luxury market and a drive for results, we encourage you to apply.