Business Development Manager

SmartNews is a global leader in redefining information and news discovery, committed to providing users with accurate, timely information and supporting quality journalism. We combine the power of our unique machine-learning technology with the expertise of our first-rate editorial team to bring news that matters to millions of users from our over 3,000 global publishing partners.

Founded in 2012 in Tokyo, Japan, SmartNews has offices in Tokyo, San Francisco, Palo Alto, New York, and Singapore.

As a Business Development Lead, you will play a critical role in driving the mid- to long-term growth of SmartNews. This position offers the opportunity to lead key business initiatives, plan strategic alliances, and shape new business opportunities that align with the company’s vision. You’ll work closely with internal stakeholders and external partners to explore untapped potential and deliver high-impact results.

This role is open to individual contributors and candidates who aspire to grow into a managerial position.
Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct market and company research to identify new business opportunities.
• Plan, develop, and execute innovative business models and strategies.
• Negotiate and establish partnerships with alliance partners.
• Create comprehensive business plans to support new initiatives.
• Lead internal and external projects to ensure successful execution of business strategies.

Why You’ll Love Working Here:

• Impactful Work: Your contributions will help shape the future of SmartNews, directly supporting the success of our leaders and our innovative mission.
• Collaborative Environment: Be a part of a supportive team where your voice is valued, and your ideas are encouraged.
• Professional Growth: Opportunities to expand your skills and grow within the company as we continue to scale.

We believe in creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued and supported. If you’re ready to make a difference in a fast-growing company and have a passion for helping others succeed, we’d love to hear from you!

• Proven experience working on a variety of business development projects, particularly in the media business.
• Strong research and analytical skills for market and company assessments.
• Demonstrated ability to think strategically and create impactful business proposals.
• High proficiency in Japanese (business level) and English (reading and writing level).

Candidates with the following experience will bring additional value to the team:

• Experience launching a new business or service.
• Proven ability to collaborate with engineers and designers on projects.
• Community building experience.
• Management experience leading teams.
• Business-level proficiency in English, including verbal communication.

Office location: Tokyo

Benefits available at the SmartNews Tokyo Office

• All healthcare and social insurance required by the Japanese labor law, plus annual health check