Regional Director – Business Development (Japan)
- Johannesburg, Gauteng
- Permanent
- Full-time
Employment Type: Full-Time
Industry: Financial Services | Tax Recovery | Institutional SalesWatersEdge Solutions is seeking a commercially sharp and highly networked Regional Director to lead business development efforts across Japan. This is a strategic, high-autonomy role for a CA or CFA with proven front-office experience in the investment management industry—ideally with exposure to institutional investors and a passion for relationship-led growth.About the Role
You’ll be responsible for driving new business in the withholding tax recovery space, managing the full sales cycle from lead generation to contract close. This is an individual contributor role where you'll identify market opportunities, build a targeted pipeline, and engage institutional prospects with compelling commercial proposals. You’ll also represent the business in market—through events, thought leadership, and client-facing materials.Key ResponsibilitiesIdentify new opportunities and develop sales strategies within the Japanese marketProspect and engage institutional investors via direct outreach, events, and relationship networksRun full-cycle sales processes from initial contact to final contract executionPrepare high-quality sales documentation including RFPs and board-level presentationsManage commercial analysis to ensure strong deal value and strategic fitLeverage MEDDICC or other pipeline frameworks to enhance sales effectivenessRepresent the business at industry events and support brand-building initiativesMeet and exceed annual sales targetsStay up to date with industry trends through self-driven learning and professional engagementWhat You’ll BringCA or CFA designation with a minimum of 2 years’ post-articles experienceFluency in Japanese (verbal and written)Front-office exposure in the investment management spaceStrong relationships or knowledge of Japan’s investment fund industryPrior experience selling to institutional investors, asset managers, or financial institutionsAbility to influence across all levels of client organisations—from admin to C-levelStrong commercial acumen, negotiation skills, and strategic thinkingExcellent presentation, communication, and interpersonal skillsHigh energy, proactive mindset, and the ability to thrive independentlyWillingness to travel for meetings and market developmentNice to HaveFormal sales training (e.g., MEDDICC methodology)Experience building a book of business in a tax, financial services, or regulatory environmentComfort working in a fast-paced, results-driven global businessWhat’s On OfferMarket-aligned compensation with performance incentivesA high-visibility, high-impact role with international exposureDirect access to senior decision-makers and executive mentorshipOpportunity to scale a high-value offering in a high-potential marketTravel, autonomy, and the ability to drive your own strategyCompany CultureAt WatersEdge Solutions, we align exceptional talent with purpose-driven, high-growth organisations. This is a role for someone who leads with initiative, thrives in a commercial environment, and is energised by building long-term client relationships in a global, cross-border setting.If you have not been contacted within 10 working days, please consider your application unsuccessful.