Sales Manager, Japan

About Columbia Threadneedle Investments

Working at Columbia Threadneedle Investments you'll find growth and career opportunities across all of our businesses.

We're intentionally built to help you succeed. Our reach is expansive with a global team of 2,300 people working together. Our capability is diverse with more than 550 investment professionals sharing global perspectives across all major asset classes and markets. Our clients have access to a broad array of investment strategies, and we have the capability to create bespoke solutions matched to clients' specific requirements. Our unwavering focus on our clients and strong financial foundation connects each of our enterprise businesses — Ameriprise Financial, Columbia Threadneedle Investments and RiverSource Insurance and Annuities.

Job Description

Where you’ll fit in & what our team goals are…

Support the growth of our Japan distribution business, with a primary focus on retail sub-advisory distribution, while contributing to broader client development across financial institutions and institutional channels.

You will be part of the Japan distribution team, working closely with the Head of Retail, Head of Financial Institutions, and other team members to drive client acquisition and revenue growth.

How you'll spend your time...

Business Development & Client Coverage (Primary Focus)

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the retail sub-advisory market in Japan.
• Support execution of a targeted client coverage plan, focusing on securities firms, distributors, and platforms
• Proactively hunt for and onboard new clients and mandates
• Build and maintain relationships with key prospects and existing clients

Channel Support & Collaboration

• Support business development efforts across financial institutions and institutional segments (incl. pension)
• Work collaboratively with the Head of Retail and Head of FI to identify and pursue cross-channel opportunities
• Contribute to overall Japan sales strategy as part of a small, collaborative team

Sales Execution

• Support and execute the sales process including pitches, follow-ups, and mandate progression
• Partner with internal teams to deliver relevant and client-focused investment solutions
• Contribute to effective product positioning across asset classes for the Japan market

Client Engagement & Relationship Management

• Maintain active engagement with clients and prospects through meetings, presentations, and follow-ups
• Support delivery of client materials, portfolio updates, and investment communications
• Work with Client Service teams to ensure smooth onboarding and ongoing servicing
  

Internal Coordination & Sales Enablement

• Collaborate with RFP, Product, Marketing, and Investment teams on proposals and presentations
• Assist in preparing marketing materials, presentations, and client communications
• Maintain accurate client information and activity tracking

To be successful in this role you will have...

• Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in asset management sales, distribution or product facing roles
• Experience in Japan retail distribution, ideally with exposure to sub-advisory or intermediary channels
• Demonstrated ability to source and develop new client relationships
• Solid understanding of investment products across asset classes
• Proficient in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Bloomberg.
• Good organizational and execution capabilities with attention to detail
• Strong ability to multi-task and work under pressure/deadlines
• Prepared to “roll up the sleeves” and take on the role.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
• Japanese (Native) and Fluent in English (spoken and written).

If you also had this, it would be great...

• Exposure to financial institutions and/or pension clients
• Experience working with securities firms, distributors or platforms
• Familiarity with tools such as eVestment
• Strong presentation skills.
• Professional qualifications (e.g. CFA, CMA .or equivalent)

In-Office Collaboration

We are a client-centric, relationship-based business. Working together, in-person, is foundational to how we achieve results. By fostering a culture of face-to-face collaboration, idea sharing, productivity and personal connection, we deliver for our stakeholders — clients, advisors, employees and shareholders. Our employees work in the office at least four (4) days per week, with flexibility to work from home one (1) day per week. Some roles may require additional in-office time or different in-office expectations, and specific requirements will be discussed during the hiring process.

Full timePermanentSales

Columbia Threadneedle is a people business, and we recognise that our success is due to our talented people, who bring diversity of thought, complementary skills and capabilities. We are committed to fostering an inclusive and performance-based culture where everyone can belong, grow, contribute and realise their potential.

We appreciate that work-life balance is an important factor for many when considering their next move so please discuss any flexible working requirements directly with your recruiter.

Columbia Threadneedle Investments is an equal opportunity employer. We consider all qualified applicants without regard to racial or ethnic background, religion or belief, sex or gender, nationality, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, marital status, pregnancy or maternity or any other basis prohibited by law.

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and accessible recruitment process for individuals with disabilities. If you require a reasonable accommodation to aid your participation in the application or interview process, speak to your recruiter to discuss how we can support you.