Senior Principal, Nike Value Stores Japan - Lead Retail Innovation at Nike in Tokyo

About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and innovators to push boundaries and achieve greatness. With a legacy of groundbreaking products and cultural impact, Nike operates globally, including a robust presence in Japan through channels like Nike Value Stores (NVS). Headquartered in Tokyo for this role, Nike Japan drives retail excellence, blending digital innovation with physical store experiences to deliver unmatched consumer engagement. Join Nike to shape the future of sportswear retail in one of the most dynamic markets worldwide.

Role Overview

As Senior Principal for Nike Value Stores Japan, you'll spearhead the strategic vision for NVS, a key liquidation-focused channel that elevates brand presentation while optimizing inventory and driving sustainable growth. Reporting to the Senior Director of Japan Nike Direct Stores (NDS), you'll collaborate with cross-functional leaders in Planning, Finance, Retail Marketing, and APLA geography teams. This high-impact leadership role demands a visionary retail expert with a growth mindset to translate Nike's global brand strategy into localized execution across Japan, ensuring sales, profit, and inventory targets are met with precision.

Key Responsibilities

In this pivotal position, you'll drive end-to-end business outcomes for Nike Value Stores Japan. Your core duties include:

• Leading the development and execution of NVS strategy to boost retail performance, sales growth, and profit margins.
• Partnering with Japan Stores leadership, including NDS, Director of Stores, and APLA NVS leads, for seamless inventory management and seasonal execution.
• Championing HQ initiatives to spot market trends, craft action plans, and seize business opportunities proactively.
• Influencing and validating seasonal planning via the proprietary CODE process for optimal product assortment.
• Implementing rebuy strategies with Planning and APLA teams to maintain healthy inventory levels.
• Optimizing media campaigns and in-store marketing to attract traffic and uphold brand-right presentations.
• Shaping the NVS store landscape through real estate partnerships with NDS Lead and Store Development for fleet optimization.

Strategic Impact

Expect to influence multimillion-dollar decisions, from store fleet expansion to marketing budgets, fostering a high-performance culture that amplifies Nike's dominance in Japan's competitive retail sector.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike seeks proven leaders ready to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Key qualifications include:

• Minimum 10 years of experience in retail management, brand management, marketing, planning, or related fields.
• Bachelor’s degree or higher education.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire teams, foster optimism, and lead high-performing groups in corporate and retail settings.
• Deep expertise in owned retail operations, marketplace management, real estate, and financial analysis.
• Entrepreneurial mindset with end-to-end business acumen and strategic foresight.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills in both Japanese and English.

Preferred Experience

Prior work in value or outlet retail channels, inventory liquidation, or Japan-specific market dynamics is highly valued. A passion for Nike's brand and retail innovation sets top candidates apart.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers a premium compensation package tailored for senior leaders:

• Competitive base salary with performance-based bonuses and equity opportunities.
• World-class health, dental, and vision insurance, plus mental wellness support.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and flexible work options.
• Exclusive employee discounts on Nike products and partner brands.
• State-of-the-art fitness reimbursements and sports event access.

Career Growth

This role is a launchpad for executive advancement within Nike's global retail organization. Gain exposure to APLA leadership, HQ strategy teams, and international projects. Nike invests in your growth through leadership academies, mentorship programs, and tuition reimbursement, positioning you for roles like Director of Retail Operations or VP of Stores across Asia Pacific.

Why Join Us

At Nike Japan, you'll work in Tokyo's vibrant epicenter, blending cutting-edge retail with cultural influence. Collaborate with diverse, high-caliber teams passionate about sport and innovation. Nike's commitment to sustainability, diversity, and athlete empowerment means your work drives real-world impact. With a supportive culture emphasizing work-life balance and bold ideas, this is your chance to lead Nike Value Stores to new heights in Japan.

Role FAQs

What is the work environment like?

A dynamic mix of office-based strategy in Tokyo and field visits to NVS locations, with hybrid flexibility.

Is relocation support provided?

Nike offers comprehensive relocation assistance for qualifying international candidates.

What are the language requirements?

Fluency in Japanese and English is mandatory for cross-functional and stakeholder communication.

How does this role fit into Nike's broader strategy?

NVS optimizes inventory while reinforcing brand strength, aligning with Nike's direct-to-consumer acceleration in Japan.

Ready to elevate Nike Value Stores? Apply now and bring your retail vision to life.