About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes* worldwide through innovative products, groundbreaking marketing, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. In Japan, Nike drives cultural shifts in sports, particularly in kids' categories and key sports like Basketball, Tennis, and Golf. As a hub for Asia Pacific Latin America (APLA), Tokyo offers unparalleled opportunities to shape Nike's future in one of the most dynamic markets.

Role Overview

The Lead, Sport/Kids Brand Marketing role in Tokyo is pivotal for elevating Nike's connection with Japanese consumers. Reporting to the Senior Manager of Brand Initiatives & Kids Brand Marketing, you'll craft authentic stories that inspire kids, parents, and athletes*. This position demands a strategic thinker who blends creativity with business acumen to deliver full-funnel marketing plans, fostering community and accelerating brand growth.

Key Responsibilities

In this leadership role, you'll own Nike's brand offense in Japan across Kids and sports categories.

• Develop and execute end-to-end integrated marketing plans, seamlessly blending digital and physical experiences.
• Lead Sport/Kids strategies, focusing on seasonal concepts, product stories, ground activations, and pinnacle sport moments.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Retail, Digital, Brand Creative, Media, Comms, Sports Marketing, Merchandising, and Marketplace teams.
• Partner globally and with external agencies, athletes, influencers, and community leaders to orchestrate consumer journeys.
• Track industry trends, manage timelines and embargoes, and measure success through brand strength, market share, traffic, sell-through, and engagement.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks proven leaders with a passion for sport and consumer-centric marketing.

• 6+ years in consumer marketing, including brand events, retail, and digital, with strong business acumen.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, Communications, or related field.
• Expertise in brand strategy, end-to-end planning, and driving integrated campaigns in dynamic teams.
• Genuine connection to Kids Sports, Lifestyle, parenting, or Basketball (other sports considered).
• Agile, resilient, curious, with excellent English and Japanese communication skills.

Ideal candidates thrive amid ambiguity, energize teams, and build meaningful consumer relationships.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing premium benefits tailored for high-performers.

• Competitive salary estimated at 80-120 million JPY, reflecting Japan's retail/tech sector rates with buffer.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and family support programs.
• Employee discounts on Nike products and exclusive event access.
• Flexible work options in Tokyo's vibrant hub.
• Professional development through Nike University and global rotations.
• Parental leave and kids-focused initiatives aligning with role passion.

Career Growth

This role accelerates your trajectory within Nike's APLA and global structure. Gain exposure to senior leaders, lead high-visibility campaigns, and influence strategies for billions in revenue. Past Leads have advanced to Director roles, overseeing multi-market portfolios. Nike invests in your growth via mentorship, training, and stretch assignments in sports marketing innovation.

Why Join Us

Be at the forefront of Nike's mission to bring inspiration to every athlete* in Japan. Shape the future of kids' sports, collaborate with global icons, and drive measurable impact in a market obsessed with performance and style. Tokyo's role offers cultural immersion, cutting-edge campaigns, and a supportive team culture that values positivity, collaboration, and bold ideas. If you're ready to elevate sport and brand experiences, Nike Japan is your platform.

Role FAQs

What experience is required?

Minimum 6 years in marketing, with brand strategy expertise and cross-functional leadership.

Is Japanese fluency mandatory?

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

What sports are focused?

Kids, Basketball, Tennis, Golf, and seasonal sport moments.

How is success measured?

Brand strength, market share, platform traffic, product sell-through, and consumer engagement.

What's the work environment like?

Fast-paced, consumer-driven, with agility in ambiguity and global collaboration.