Fundraising and Sponsorship Management
U.S.-Japan Council Japan
The U.S.-Japan Council Japan is a public interest organization that develops and connects diverse leaders to strengthen the U.S.-Japan relationship through powerful people-to-people connections. Founded by Japanese Americans, our innovative exchange programs, leadership development initiatives, and impactful convenings transform lives and cultivate leaders who are committed to a strong and enduring bilateral relationship.
Role Overview
U.S.-Japan Council Japan (USJC) seeks a motivated Sponsorship & Business Development Director to develop and maintain relationships with partners, donors, and government counterparts in the U.S. and Japan.
Main Responsibilities
Fundraising and Sponsorship Management:
- Build, maintain, and expand relationships with sponsoring companies.
- Identify and secure new sponsorships for USJC and the TOMODACHI Initiative.
- Create persuasive proposals and deliver impactful presentations to secure sponsorships.
- Manage applications for grants and subsidies, negotiate contracts, and prepare reports.
- Provide regular updates on program progress to sponsors, ensuring transparent and accountable use of funds.
New Business Development & Management:
- Identify opportunities for new business initiatives that deepen mutual understanding and friendship between the U.S. and Japan and contribute to solving common social challenges.
- Collaborate with the TOMODACHI Program Director and Alumni Program Director and promote high-value activities at the U.S.-Japan Council, including regional revitalization and matching TOMODACHI alumni with companies.
Marketing & Public Relations:
- Develop and implement PR strategies for business initiatives and events.
- Plan and manage events for sponsor companies.
- Draft press releases, build media relations, and respond to media inquiries.
- Utilize websites, social media, and other platforms for effective communication and promotion.
*The above Marketing & PR related works are mainly strategy and framework development, and the details and implementation shall be done with external PR firms.
Other:
- Provide support for organizational operations as needed.
- Handle other duties as assigned.
Desired Profile
- Passionate about building bridges between the U.S. and Japan and driven by a strong commitment to make a positive impact.
- Proven experience in fundraising, new business development, business strategy formulation, and business planning.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with diverse stakeholders.
- Proactive, results-oriented, and capable of taking ownership and responsibility for assigned tasks.
Preferred Qualifications & Skills
- Exceptional communication skills in both Japanese and English (reading, writing, and speaking).
- Highly motivated and adaptable individual who can thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
- Strong organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines and prioritize effectively.
- Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
- Practical experience in promoting cross-cultural understanding, education, or international cooperation.
- Experience collaborating with local governments and NPOs.
- Experience working in or with the non-profit sector, preferably in Japan.
- Experience in grant solicitation and writing
- Experience in Tohoku and an existing network there is preferred.
Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and other PC skills required.
If you are interested, please contact us at the following email address:
