Senior IP Licensing Associate (Japan)

Senior IP Licensing Associate (Japan) – $70k – $120k – Japan

Plexus is partnered with a rapidly growing entertainment-tech company operating at the intersection of anime, digital content, and next-generation fan engagement. The company is redefining how Japanese IP is licensed and monetized globally, using modern technology to create new revenue models for rights holders and more immersive experiences for fans.

They are seeking a Senior IP Licensing Associate to lead their licensing and partnership efforts in Japan. This person will drive relationships with studios, production committees, publishers, and consumer brands while acting as a cultural and operational bridge between Japan and global teams. It’s a high-impact, relationship-heavy role ideal for someone deeply familiar with the anime industry and comfortable navigating complex rights structures.

Key Responsibilities:

• Build, manage, and grow licensing relationships with Japanese studios, publishers, production committees, and consumer brand partners.

• Lead end-to-end negotiations in Japanese, covering rights terms, deal structures, and contract alignment.

• Source, pitch, and close IP licensing and co-marketing partnerships for both domestic and international use.

• Maintain a strong pipeline of Japanese licensees, owning the full sales and onboarding cycle.

• Represent the company at Japan-based industry events and expand local brand presence.

• Collaborate with product and tech teams to communicate partner needs and influence platform features.

• Provide ongoing market insights on the Japanese content landscape to support regional strategy.

• Serve as a cultural bridge between Japan and global leadership teams to ensure smooth communication and expectations alignment.

Requirements:

• 3 to 5+ years of experience in IP licensing, anime production, publishing, or business development in Japan.

• Native Japanese with strong business-level English communication skills.

• Deep understanding of Japanese anime industry structure, including committee systems and licensing workflows.

• Demonstrated success closing deals with Japanese rights holders or entertainment companies.

• Highly proactive, detail-oriented, and able to operate independently in a fast-paced environment.

• Genuine passion for anime, content IP, and emerging digital content trends.

What’s on Offer:

• Competitive compensation ranging from $70k – $120k, with performance upside.

• Flexible remote work with preference for Tokyo-based candidates.

• Chance to work with a global team building innovative platforms for IP monetization and fan engagement.

• High ownership role with direct influence on market expansion in Japan.