About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and innovators through groundbreaking products and storytelling. With a presence in over 190 countries, Nike drives culture and community worldwide. In Japan, Nike Japan leads the charge in sportswear innovation, blending global strategies with local market expertise to dominate the athletic apparel landscape. As a Director, Sportswear Specialty, you'll join an elite team shaping the future of retail in one of the most dynamic markets.

Role Overview

The Director, Sportswear Specialty, Japan role at Nike in Tokyo is a pivotal leadership position within Nike Japan's Sales organization. Reporting to the Senior Director of Sales, you'll manage five direct reports and spearhead sustainable growth in the sportswear specialty sector. This role demands a seasoned leader with intimate knowledge of Japan's wholesale and sportswear marketplace, capable of transforming consumer insights, product strategies, and brand vision into profitable plans. Collaborate with Merchandising, Planning, Marketing, Sport Marketplace Directors, and APLA teams to elevate specialty retail and maximize partnerships in a fast-paced, multi-brand environment.

Key Responsibilities

In this high-impact role, you'll drive Nike Japan's Sportswear Specialty business through strategic leadership and execution. Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing a high-performing sales organization, fostering accountability and results across five direct reports.
• Owning strategic account and marketplace planning, influencing senior internal and external stakeholders.
• Partnering cross-functionally to deliver seasonal plans, go-to-market execution, and retail elevation initiatives.
• Driving forecasting, scenario planning, and financial decision-making to optimize profitability.
• Translating consumer and marketplace insights into actionable strategies for specialty retail partners.
• Navigating complex, multi-brand, omni-channel retail environments to deliver comprehensive 360-degree business solutions.
• Championing clear communication, problem-solving, and disciplined execution to propel the business forward.

Strategic Impact

Your work will shape channel-level strategies, unlock new growth opportunities, and optimize existing business with key partners, ensuring Nike's dominance in Japan's competitive sportswear market.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike Japan seeks an exceptional leader with proven expertise. Essential qualifications include:

• Minimum 9–10 years of leadership experience in sales, account management, or marketplace roles within the athletic or consumer products industry, encompassing field sales, merchandising, retail buying, and business planning.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent in a related field.
• Deep knowledge of the sportswear industry, including product innovation, consumer insights, and marketplace trends specific to Japan.
• Vision and capability to deliver 360-degree business solutions in complex, multi-brand, omni-channel retail settings.
• Exceptional communication skills in English and Japanese, with proven ability to influence senior stakeholders, build relationships, and thrive in dynamic environments.

Ideal candidates exhibit strategic account leadership, cross-functional influence, learning agility, and disciplined execution.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing world-class benefits tailored for top talent:

• Competitive base salary estimated at $150,000–$220,000 USD equivalent, plus performance bonuses and equity opportunities.
• Comprehensive health insurance, mental wellness support, and family benefits.
• Generous paid vacation, parental leave, and flexible working arrangements.
• Exclusive employee discounts on Nike products and partners.
• State-of-the-art fitness facilities and wellness programs.

Career Growth

At Nike, career progression is limitless. This Director role positions you for advancement to Senior Director or regional VP levels within APLA. Benefit from Nike's renowned leadership development programs, global rotations, and mentorship from industry icons. With a focus on learning agility, you'll gain exposure to cutting-edge marketplace strategies and omni-channel innovations.

Why Join Us

Why Nike Japan? Tokyo's vibrant sportswear scene meets Nike's global innovation powerhouse. Influence Japan's wholesale landscape, collaborate with elite teams, and drive profitable growth in a market valued at billions. Enjoy a premium work culture emphasizing speed, discipline, and impact. Be part of a brand that doesn't just sell products—it inspires movements.

Role FAQs

What experience is required?

9-10 years in sales leadership within athletic/consumer products, plus Japan market expertise.

Is Japanese fluency mandatory?

Yes, exceptional English and Japanese communication skills are essential for stakeholder influence.

What teams will I collaborate with?

Merchandising, Planning, Marketing, Sport Marketplace Directors, and APLA regional teams.

Is relocation support provided?

Nike offers comprehensive relocation packages for international hires to Tokyo.

How does this role contribute to Nike's goals?

By elevating specialty retail and driving sustainable growth in Japan's key sportswear channels.