Assistant Manager – Regional Strategy & Corporate Planning (SEA & Japan)

Role OverviewWe are seeking a dynamic Assistant Manager – Regional Strategy & Corporate Planning to drive strategic initiatives and ensure alignment between our Southeast Asia operations and the Japanese headquarters. The role involves regional business planning, cross-functional coordination, and delivering actionable insights that shape long-term corporate direction.You will play a pivotal role in analyzing performance data, aligning business goals across markets, and supporting leadership with strategy formulation and execution.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Planning:Develop and implement long-term corporate strategies for Southeast Asia, ensuring alignment with headquarters’ objectives and global business vision.Regional Collaboration:Work closely with stakeholders across Southeast Asia and Japan to coordinate cross-functional projects and strategic initiatives.Business Analysis:Analyze historical and current financial data, performance metrics, and market trends to support data-driven business decisions.Leadership Reporting:Prepare and present strategic reports, business updates, and actionable recommendations to senior management for review and direction.HQ Communication & Coordination:Facilitate seamless communication between regional teams and the Japanese headquarters, ensuring alignment through consistent ho-ren-sou (reporting, communication, consultation) practices.Performance Monitoring:Track project performance, financial health, and key KPIs to ensure timely achievement of strategic objectives.Operational Consistency:Ensure clarity, accountability, and standardized execution across teams and markets within the Southeast Asia region.Knowledge, Skills & AbilitiesRegional Market Expertise:Strong understanding of Southeast Asia’s economic, social, and cultural dynamics, enabling tailored strategic planning and decision-making.Analytical & Research Skills:Proven experience in market analysis, competitive benchmarking, and financial performance assessment.Innovation Mindset:Ability to translate insights and complex business concepts into actionable plans that drive innovation and efficiency.Leadership & Communication:Excellent collaboration and communication skills to work effectively with cross-functional teams, including product, engineering, and HQ counterparts.Entrepreneurial Approach:Proactive, adaptable, and able to deliver results in a fast-paced, multicultural environment.Cultural Sensitivity:Ability to work seamlessly across diverse markets and cultures with a flexible, positive, and professional attitude.Language Proficiency:Fluency in English and business-level Japanese (equivalent to JLPT N2 or above) to effectively coordinate with headquarters in Japan.Qualifications & ExperienceEducation:Bachelor’s degree or higher in Business Administration, Economics, Strategy, or a related field.Experience:5–6 years of relevant experience in corporate strategy, business planning, or regional operations roles.Preferably from Japanese organizations, tech startups, or innovative industries.Proven experience in HQ–regional coordination and strategic alignment.