Associate

Job Description

The Asia Group (TAG) is now accepting applications for an Associate to join our Japan Practice. This role will be based in Tokyo.

TAG is a leading strategic and capital advisory firm that positions clients – ranging from Fortune 100 multinationals to innovative startups – for success in established and emerging markets across the Indo-Pacific region. Our expertise is delivered through a network of offices in key cities including Washington D.C., Taipei, New Delhi, Mumbai, Tokyo, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and Hanoi. Our team is a diverse mix of partners, senior advisers and talent with extensive backgrounds in government, the private sector, and the military.

We champion a corporate culture that values teamwork, collegiality, creativity, and an entrepreneurial spirit. Operating at a brisk pace, we maintain a demanding yet adaptable and enjoyable work environment. At TAG, we’re committed not only to professional excellence but also to the growth of our firm. We dedicate ourselves to mentoring and leading our staff, recognizing the importance of nurturing talent as part of our journey to continued success.

The Asia Group’s Tokyo office is seeking a highly motivated individual to support our thriving Japan practice at the Associate level. The Associate will be an integral member of TAG’s Japan practice led by Ambassador Kurt Tong and support our Tokyo-based team by carrying out in-depth research and logistical tasks, developing actionable insights, engaging in client services, and producing client-ready updates and research memoranda.

The ideal candidate will have a particularly strong working knowledge of Japanese defense industry and contracting and U.S.-Japan alliance, and a good understanding of the Japanese political system, as well as a strong grasp of business fundamentals and Japan’s complex regulatory environment. They will possess strong communication abilities in both English and Japanese and will be able to provide concise and nuanced briefings and written product to TAG clients and leadership. Priority will be given to those applicants with demonstrated business, government, and/or research experience in Japan and with native-level Japanese language.

Responsibilities Include:

• Undertake in-depth research utilizing primary English and Japanese resources;
• Support planning and implementation of client engagements and activities in Tokyo;
• Support coordination between the Japan Team in Tokyo and the Defense Practice in Washington, D.C.
• Produce written updates and assessments on matters which impact key client priorities, including political, economic, and regulatory developments;
• Monitor local print and online media for important developments related to client equities and opportunities for business development;
• Support TAG’s Japan Managing Director with client servicing and office initiatives; and
• Support non-defense related work as requested by Japan Managing Director

Required Experience and Qualifications:

• Advanced degree (MA/MBA/JD) or equivalent practical work experience related to U.S.-Japan alliance
• Demonstrated knowledge of U.S.-Japan alliance, Japan’s defense industry, U.S. security relations with Asia, and Japanese domestic politics, preferably with at least 3 plus years of work experience in a client-facing industry, research institute, government, or government relations sector
• Outstanding research, writing, and analytical skills in both English and Japanese, including ability to communicate professionally with clients
• Attention to details, and strong planning and organization skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, including PowerPoint
• Team player with positive and professional attitude; eager for professional development and open to learning
• Self-starter with ability to excel in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Can-do attitude and willingness to support both critical client matters and simple administrative tasks
• Flexibility with respect to working and communication hours, particularly when coordinating with team members in Washington, D.C.

Candidates must be eligible to work in Japan. Employees will work in an in-person environment. TAG provides competitive health benefits and paid time off, with training opportunities available for its employees.

All interested candidates should submit a cover letter, resume, a two-page analytical writing sample and a list of references (references will not be contacted without applicant permission) via the application portal below. Due to the volume of applications received, responses from our recruiting team may be delayed. No phone calls or emails, please.