Senior Professional, Running, Training & Yoga - Nike Japan

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 storytelling, Nike shapes the future of sport globally. In Japan, Nike drives cultural relevance through strategic sports marketing in categories like Running, Track & Field, Training, and Yoga. Join a team that's at the forefront of athlete partnerships and brand elevation in one of the most dynamic sports markets worldwide.

Role Overview

As Senior Professional, Running, Training & Yoga in Tokyo, Japan, you'll report to the Sports Marketing Director and partner with global and local teams. This role bridges Nike's global strategy with Japan-specific execution, focusing on athlete services, innovation, and storytelling. Operate within the 3S + 1L framework—Seek, Sign, Serve, and Leverage—to identify emerging talent, negotiate partnerships, and amplify Nike's presence in Running Track & Field, Training, and Yoga. Ideal for strategic thinkers passionate about Japanese sports culture and building iconic athlete portfolios.

Key Responsibilities

Your day-to-day will immerse you in high-impact sports marketing. Key duties include:

• Building and maintaining robust networks with athletes, trainers, coaches, agents, teams, and cross-functional stakeholders across Sports Marketing, Brand Marketing, Social & Community Impact, Communications, Nike Direct Digital Commerce, Nike Direct Stores, and Partner Sales.
• Leading athlete and trainer experiences in underserved areas with creative, resourceful strategies to maximize business and brand impact.
• Developing and activating athlete integration plans aligned with seasonal brand priorities and storytelling moments.
• Shaping a competitive athlete portfolio via talent identification, contract negotiations, and strategic invest/divest decisions.
• Collaborating with internal teams to align partnerships with product launches, business goals, and marketplace strategies.
• Leveraging performance data and market insights for decision-making and measuring partnership ROI.
• Overseeing promotional product orders, seasonal deliveries, athlete data management, system updates, budget forecasting, and reporting to Japan and Global Sports Marketing Leadership.

Qualifications & Requirements

Nike Japan seeks proven professionals ready to elevate sports marketing. Essential qualifications include:

• Minimum 3–5 years of experience in Sports Marketing, Brand Marketing, or directly relevant roles.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent practical experience.
• Demonstrated success building relationships with athletes, trainers, coaches, agents, and stakeholders, translating insights into actionable strategies.
• Expertise in portfolio management, critical thinking, negotiation, with a strategic, entrepreneurial mindset in fast-paced environments.
• Deep understanding of Japanese sports culture, particularly Running Track & Field, Training, and Yoga, to craft locally resonant narratives.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, Keynote, and Nike internal systems (preferred).
• Strong oral and written communication skills in English and Japanese.

Thrive with an inclusive, solutions-oriented approach in a collaborative, dynamic setting.

Benefits & Perks

Joining Nike means accessing world-class benefits tailored for Tokyo professionals:

• Competitive salary estimated at ¥90M–¥130M annually, reflecting senior expertise in Japan's Retail/Tech sector with a 5-10% upside buffer.
• Comprehensive health, wellness, and family support programs.
• Generous paid time off, parental leave, and flexible work options.
• Employee discounts on Nike products and exclusive athlete event access.
• Professional development through Nike University training and global mobility opportunities.

Career Growth

This role is a launchpad for sports marketing leaders. Gain exposure to global strategies while embedding local insights, positioning you for advancement to Director-level roles. Nike invests in your growth with mentorship, cross-functional projects, and leadership programs. Build a career championing future icons in Running, Training, and Yoga.

Why Join Us

Be part of Nike's mission to bring inspiration and innovation to every athlete in Japan. Work in Tokyo's energetic hub, collaborating with top talent and driving cultural impact. Enjoy a premium, inclusive culture that values diverse perspectives and bold ideas. At Nike, you'll not just market sport—you'll shape its future.

Role FAQs

What experience is required?

3–5 years in Sports Marketing or equivalent, plus deep Japanese sports knowledge.

Is Japanese fluency mandatory?

Yes, strong English and Japanese communication skills are essential.

What is the 3S + 1L framework?

Seek talent, Sign partnerships, Serve athletes, and Leverage for brand impact.

What's the work environment like?

Fast-paced, collaborative, with global-local alignment and entrepreneurial freedom.

How does this role support career progression?

Direct path to leadership via athlete portfolio success and cross-functional exposure.