Business Development Manager
Who we are:
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise (NZTE) is New Zealand’s international business development agency. We partner with ambitious New Zealand companies to help them grow internationally, providing commercial insight, market access and hands‑on support in priority markets around the world.
What you will be doing:
Our Japan team is seeking a highly connected, commercially astute Business Development Manager to be based in Tokyo. This role is focused on helping New Zealand companies successfully enter, expand and scale in the Japanese market.
You will manage a portfolio of New Zealand businesses in the manufacturing and technology sectors, working closely with founders and senior leaders to shape and execute Japan market strategies. Drawing on your strong local networks and deep understanding of how business is done in Japan, you will help companies navigate market entry, identify and engage the right partners, and unlock sustainable growth opportunities.
In this hands‑on role, you will:
• Provide practical, commercially grounded advice on market entry and growth strategies tailored to Japan
• Leverage your networks to make high value introductions to customers, partners, distributors and key market influencers
• Conduct market and customer analysis to help companies refine positioning, routes to market and value propositions
• Coach and challenge companies as they adapt their products, pricing and go to market approaches for Japan
• Identify new pathways to market and support companies through negotiations and early-stage commercial activity.
You will work across multiple sectors as part of the Japan team, collaborating closely with colleagues in Tokyo, New Zealand and NZTE’s global network to deliver on New Zealand’s economic development objectives.
To succeed in this role, you will bring:
• Deep experience in manufacturing and/or technology sectors would be highly advantageous – with experience in gaming or creative sectors a bonus
• Strong, well-established networks in Japan, with proven experience in business development, sales or commercial growth roles
• Demonstrated experience supporting businesses to navigate global markets through market entry, partner development and scale up in Japan
• Sound commercial judgement and the ability to assess company capability, market fit and growth potential
• Excellent relationship management and consulting skills, with the credibility to engage confidently with CEOs and senior executives
• A practical, hands-on mindset and comfort operating in ambiguity
Proven commercial acumen is essential, alongside a strong instinct for how decisions are made, relationships are built and trust is earned in the Japanese market.
Fluency in both Japanese & English is required.
Please note: This is a locally engaged position. You will already need to be eligible to work in Japan for NZTE.
For more information about the role please view the Position Description.
This role is banded TKY L17.
Why you will love working here:
NZTE offers a flexible, fun and stimulating environment with a unique opportunity to develop and access world class business networks and work with a talented, diverse, international team.
You will be encouraged and supported to grow your career in this interesting role.
What’s next:
Do you think you have what it takes? Then we want to hear from you! Apply attaching your cover letter and CV.
Applications close 11.59pm NZT Sunday 15 March 2026.