Product Development and Management (Associate Director)

Introduction:

We are supporting a leading global asset management firm in the search for an Associate Director, Product Development & Management based in Tokyo.

This is a senior product leadership role responsible for driving the development, enhancement, and lifecycle management of investment products and solutions for institutional and intermediary clients. The successful candidate will work closely with Investment, Distribution, and regional stakeholders to shape product strategy and support business growth in Japan.

About the Role:

The Associate Director will play a key role in defining and executing product strategy, identifying market opportunities, and leading strategic product initiatives from concept development through implementation.

The role requires a commercially minded product professional who can combine strong investment knowledge with project leadership, stakeholder management, and market insights to deliver innovative solutions aligned with client needs and business objectives.

Responsibilities:

• Drive product strategy by identifying market trends, client needs, and commercial opportunities.
• Lead the design, development, launch, and lifecycle management of investment products and solutions.
• Develop business cases and provide strategic recommendations to senior management.
• Partner with Investment, Distribution, Compliance, and regional teams to ensure successful product implementation.
• Manage strategic initiatives including product enhancements, launches, closures, and rationalisation.
• Monitor market developments, competitor activity, regulatory changes, and industry trends.
• Support client and distributor engagement by providing product expertise and market insights.
• Represent the Japan business in regional and global product discussions.
• Mentor junior team members and contribute to team development.

Requirements:

• Experience in product development, product management, or a related investment product function within an asset management organisation.
• Strong understanding of investment strategies across traditional and alternative asset classes.
• Experience in product design, launches, lifecycle management, and commercialisation.
• Strong commercial mindset with the ability to identify opportunities and develop business proposals.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, including experience engaging with senior stakeholders and clients.
• Experience leading cross-functional projects in a global environment.
• Knowledge of fund structures, regulations, taxation, and operational aspects is advantageous.
• Professional qualifications such as CFA, CAIA, MBA, or equivalent are preferred.
• Japanese: Native / Advanced business level
• English: Business fluent level

Why Apply:

• Opportunity to take a strategic leadership role within a global asset management organisation.
• High-impact position shaping product strategy and business growth in the Japanese market.
• Broad exposure across investment, distribution, and global product teams.
• Opportunity to work on diverse product initiatives and develop expertise across multiple investment areas.
• Ideal opportunity for an experienced product professional seeking a senior role with strong commercial and strategic responsibility.