About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and innovators to push boundaries and redefine what's possible. With a legacy of groundbreaking products and cultural impact, Nike operates globally, including a strong presence in Japan. As Lead, Nike Store Partners Japan in Tokyo, you'll contribute to elevating Nike's marketplace execution in one of the most dynamic retail landscapes.

Role Overview

The Lead, Nike Store Partners Japan role is pivotal in driving partnership excellence with Nike Store Partners (NSP) in Japan. Reporting to the Director of Nike Store Owned (NSO)/NSP Japan, you'll identify business opportunities, implement strategic priorities, and translate product insights into actionable marketplace strategies. This full-time position in Tokyo demands a leader with deep business acumen, relationship-building prowess, and a passion for sports and retail trends.

Key Impact Areas

Focus on consumer-led strategies, Go-To-Market (GTM) excellence, and in-season management to optimize Nike's product sales and presence.

Key Responsibilities

In this role, you'll spearhead day-to-day partner management and strategic execution:

• Lead core processes like strategic planning, franchise contract management, seasonal sell-in, trade terms, and business performance reviews.
• Support GTM through Consumer Marketplace Pivot (CMP), Seasonal Kick-off (SKO), and Seasonal Partner Alignment (SPA).
• Deliver precise seasonal assortments, forecasts, scenario plans, and ensure timely order submissions and tracking.
• Analyze wins and opportunities, providing weekly performance updates to Japan Store Leadership Team and Geo LT.
• Coordinate order tracking, retail launches, confirmations, and cancellations.
• Build and maintain relationships with customer stakeholders at all levels.
• Scale retail elevation by leveraging best-in-class examples across markets.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks candidates with:

• 5+ years in account management, retail buying, or merchandising.
• Bachelor’s degree in business, marketing, or related field.
• Sales experience preferred; strong knowledge of sports, athletics, and apparel industry trends.
• Leadership mindset for fostering cross-team relationships.
• Expertise in product presentations, financial insights, and execution of assortments, forecasts, and orders.
• Microsoft Office proficiency.
• Fluent in Japanese and English (oral and written).

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing world-class benefits:

• Competitive salary estimated at 8,000,000 - 14,000,000 JPY annually, based on Retail/Tech sector rates in Japan.
• Global collaboration with teams in Merchandising, Planning, Retail Marketing, and more across Asia Pacific and Latin America.
• Professional development in a high-growth environment.
• Health, wellness, and employee discount programs synonymous with Nike culture.
• Dynamic Tokyo location offering urban vibrancy and proximity to sports innovation hubs.

Career Growth

This role offers a launchpad for advancement within Nike Japan and globally. Hone skills in strategic partnership management, GTM execution, and retail operations. Past NSP leads have progressed to director-level positions, leveraging Nike's emphasis on internal mobility and leadership development programs tailored for high-performers.

Development Opportunities

Access mentorship from senior leaders, cross-functional projects, and Nike University training to build expertise in athletics retail.

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's mission to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in Japan. In Tokyo, drive tangible growth for Nike Store Partners, influencing product evolution and marketplace dominance. Enjoy a collaborative culture where your leadership shapes Nike's future in a premium sports brand.

Role FAQs

What is the reporting structure?

Reports directly to the Director Nike Store Owned (NSO)/NSP Japan.

Is Japanese fluency required?

Yes, strong oral and written skills in Japanese and English are essential.

What experience level is needed?

Minimum 5 years in account management, retail buying, or merchandising.

Are there travel requirements?

Collaboration across Japan and regions like Asia Pacific may involve travel.

How does this role impact Nike's business?

Directly drives partnership excellence, sales optimization, and retail elevation in Japan.