Global Project Manager in Japan - Everything You Need to Know
Global Projects need managing.
In Japan, this means bridging the East and West.
That bridge could be you!
To help you learn everything you need to know to become a bridge, I spoke with Manthila Baduraliyage, a technical recruiter who has helped people turn into that exact bridge.
Here is a picture of her:
Now you can imagine Manthila is giving you these tips instead of me.
Unless you are reading these as a fan of Bryan Rios from Wahl+Case. In that case, thank you for always reading the intro.
Manthila covered what a Global Project Manager is, your responsibilities, your day-to-day tasks, the requirements, and tips to help you turn into a bridge.
There’s a lot to cover, so let’s get started.
What Is a Global Projects Manager
Your primary directive is managing timelines and communication between three major stakeholders: your internal reporting line, the client, and the engineering team.
Your role is to ensure seamless communication across all fronts.
You'll be the linchpin of global projects with clients such as major e-commerce retailers, gaming giants, and other interesting companies that I can’t name.
English proficiency is a key requirement, as this role is a significant step towards the company's internationalization.
Responsibilities
As a Global Project Manager in this leading Japanese tech company, your role is multifaceted and central to the company's internationalization efforts. Here's a deeper dive into what this role entails:
Management of Diverse Global Teams: You'll be at the helm of project teams, varying in size from 5 to 20 members. This role demands not just leadership but also a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. You will manage multiple teams concurrently, amplifying the need for excellent organizational skills.
Quality Assurance and Improvement Initiatives: A significant part of your job will involve drafting quality assurance plans, understanding and resolving issues, and constantly seeking ways to improve product quality and usability. This includes proposing improvement measures and leading projects that directly impact the quality of the products.
System Development and Project Oversight: Your technical background will come into play as you'll be responsible for building systems and managing the overall progress and direction of the project. This includes hands-on involvement with the technical aspects and ensuring that the project aligns with the company’s goals.
Bilingual Communication: Given the international nature of the projects, fluency in both English and Japanese is crucial. You will be the bridge between the Japanese internal teams and global clients. This involves conducting and facilitating video and telephone conferences, as well as written communications in both languages.
Client and Team Interaction: You'll be gathering support information and instructions from senior personnel. On the client side, particularly with international clients, your role will involve understanding and communicating their needs in English. This information must then be relayed effectively to your engineering team, which could range from 10 to potentially 50 people.
Seamless Tripartite Communication: A critical aspect of your role is to ensure seamless communication among the client and the engineering team. This involves understanding and adapting to the nuances of working in both English and Japanese environments.
Technical and Engineering Knowledge: The ideal candidate for this role would have a solid background in engineering or quality assurance. This knowledge is vital for understanding the technical aspects of the projects and for effectively managing the engineering team.
Now, let's break down what you will actually be doing daily, except on weekends and holidays:
Day-to-Day
Your day will be dynamic, involving collaboration with senior staff understanding and relaying the needs of international clients, and managing a diverse engineering team.
Here's a closer look at how a typical day might unfold:
Morning
Start with a Brief Team Meeting: Your day might begin with a quick stand-up meeting with your engineering team. This is where you'll discuss the day's priorities, address any concerns, and ensure everyone is aligned on their tasks.
Review Client Communications: Next, you'll review any updates or requests from your international clients. This could involve reading emails, and project briefs, or preparing for later meetings where you'll be communicating in English.
Liaison with Senior Personnel: You'll then touch base with senior staff members to gather support information and instructions. This is crucial to ensure that your team's work aligns with the broader objectives of the company.
Midday
Client Meetings: Part of your afternoon may be dedicated to meetings with clients, predominantly in English. Here, you'll discuss project progress, understand their needs, and negotiate or clarify any project details.
Project Management Tasks: This is the time to dive into the core project management responsibilities. It could involve drafting quality assurance plans, strategizing on system development, or overseeing the progress of various projects.
Internal Communication: Ensuring your engineering team is on track is vital. You may spend time communicating the clients' needs to your team, helping resolve any technical issues, and ensuring that the project adheres to quality standards.
Afternoon to Evening
Team Collaboration: As the day progresses, you'll collaborate closely with your team, possibly working on system development, addressing technical issues, and ensuring project milestones are being met.
Bilingual Documentation: Your role may also involve bilingual documentation and reporting – ensuring that all project details are accurately recorded in both English and Japanese.
Wrap-up and Planning: At the end of the day, it's about wrapping up ongoing tasks, responding to any final communications from clients or senior staff, and planning for the next day.
Throughout the Day
Ad Hoc Responsibilities: As a project manager, you'll also need to be prepared for unexpected issues or ad hoc tasks that require your immediate attention.
Continuous Learning: Staying updated with the latest trends in project management, quality assurance, and technology will be an integral part of your day.
What are the requirements to work as a Global Project Manager?
Requirements
Experience in Software Development:
Candidates should have experience in developing web or open software. This is essential to understand the technical aspects of the projects and to communicate effectively with the engineering team.
Team Management Experience:
Prospective candidates must have experience managing a team, particularly in a software development project. This includes overseeing a team of several people, indicating the ability to handle team dynamics and project management effectively.
Global Project Experience:
Experience in interacting with overseas offshore companies is crucial, especially in global projects. This implies experience with processes and challenges unique to international project management.
Bilingual Negotiation and Communication:
Candidates need to be proficient in negotiating and communicating in both Japanese and English. This includes the ability to facilitate teleconferences and web conferences with overseas team members, ensuring smooth and effective communication across different cultures.
Technical Background:
A background in engineering, particularly in quality assurance, is highly desirable. This equips the candidate with the necessary technical knowledge to oversee the project effectively.
Cultural Sensitivity:
Working as a cultural bridge, particularly in managing a team in another country, is a significant aspect of this role. This requires an understanding of and sensitivity to different cultural nuances
Bonus Points
Obviously, having global project management experience will give you an edge when applying to a Global Project Manager position.
Out of all of the requirements, here are the 5 skills that Manthila said you should focus on to get a job as a bridge.
5 Skills That Will Make You Stand Out
1. Technical Project Management
Why It Matters:
Technical project management is crucial for overseeing complex software development projects. It ensures that projects are delivered on time, within scope, and meet quality standards. This skill is key in bridging the gap between technical teams and business objectives.
How to Build:
Gain practical experience by leading smaller projects.
Pursue certifications in project management methodologies like Agile or PMP.
Stay updated with the latest technology trends and project management tools.
2. Bilingual Ability (English and Japanese)
Why It Matters:
Proficiency in both English and Japanese is essential for effective communication in a global business environment. It enables you to liaise seamlessly with international clients and your Japanese team, eliminating language barriers.
How to Build:
Engage in language courses or immersion programs.
Practice regularly with native speakers.
Utilize language learning apps and tools for continuous improvement.
3. Engineering or QA Background
Why It Matters:
Having a background in engineering or quality assurance gives you a deep understanding of the technical aspects of projects. This knowledge is critical for making informed decisions and guiding your team effectively.
How to Build:
Pursue relevant educational qualifications in engineering or IT.
Gain hands-on experience in technical roles.
Keep abreast of technological advancements and industry best practices.
4. Experience Managing a Team of 10 or More
Why It Matters:
Managing a larger team demonstrates your leadership and organizational skills. It shows your capability to handle complex team dynamics and maintain productivity under pressure.
How to Build:
Start by leading smaller teams and gradually take on more responsibility.
Develop strong communication and conflict-resolution skills.
Learn from experienced managers and seek mentorship opportunities.
5. Working as a Cultural Bridge
Why It Matters:
Being a cultural bridge is vital in a globalized workplace. It involves understanding different cultural perspectives and facilitating a harmonious and inclusive work environment.
How to Build:
Engage with diverse cultures through travel, networking, or cultural events.
Educate yourself on cross-cultural communication and sensitivity.
Develop empathy and active listening skills to understand different viewpoints.
What is the career path for someone passionate about global projects?
Career Progression
You have the opportunity to climb the managerial ladder, potentially managing projects across multiple countries.
Here's a career map that outlines potential pathways and milestones:
Starting Point: Global Project Manager
Role: Managing international projects, leading diverse teams, and bridging cultural gaps.
Skills: Technical project management, bilingual communication, and cultural sensitivity.
Next Steps:
Senior Project Manager
Role: Overseeing multiple large-scale projects, and mentoring junior project managers.
Growth: Focus on developing strategic planning and risk management skills.
Program Manager
Role: Managing a portfolio of projects, and aligning them with organizational strategy.
Growth: Enhance your leadership skills and ability to manage complex program structures.
Advanced Career Opportunities:
Head of Project Management
Role: Leading the project management office (PMO), setting standards and methodologies for project management across the company.
Growth: Develop executive leadership skills and a deep understanding of business operations.
Director of Operations
Role: Overseeing the operational aspects of the company, contributing to policy and strategy.
Growth: Expand your knowledge in business management and organizational leadership.
Long-Term Aspirations:
Vice President of Product Development
Role: Leading the product development strategy, working closely with C-level executives.
Growth: Hone your skills in strategic decision-making and corporate leadership.
Chief Operating Officer (COO)
Role: Managing the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of the company.
Growth: Develop a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the business and strong crisis management skills.
Ready to apply? Here are some tips from Manthila to help you land the job.
Tips for Landing the Job
SCRUM Master or Agile Experience
Having a SCRUM Master certification or experience in Agile methodologies can greatly enhance your candidacy. It demonstrates your ability to adapt to modern project management approaches and work within flexible, fast-paced environments.
Involvement in Overseas Projects
Gain experience in international projects whenever possible. This showcases your ability to handle the complexities of global project management and work with diverse teams.
Experience with Multicultural Teams
Highlight any experience you have working with teams from different cultural backgrounds. This experience is invaluable for a role that requires being a cultural bridge.
CV Tips
Highlight Key Projects: Detail the projects you have managed, focusing on those that had a global scope or required coordination across different cultures.
Quantify Your Experience: Where possible, quantify your achievements. Include the number of people you managed, the size of the projects, and any significant outcomes or improvements you were responsible for.
Demonstrate Technical and Management Skills: Outline your technical skills and how you’ve applied them in project management. Also, emphasize your leadership and team management abilities.
Bilingual Proficiency: Clearly state your language skills, especially your proficiency in English and Japanese, as this is a critical requirement for the role.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight the skills and experiences most relevant to a Global Project Manager role, particularly focusing on international and cross-cultural project management.
Professional Layout: Ensure your CV has a clean, professional layout, making it easy to read and understand. Remember, the presentation of your CV is often the first impression you make.
Interview Tips
Document Screening: Prepare a comprehensive resume tailored to Japanese standards.
HR Interview: Be ready to demonstrate your language proficiency in English and Japanese.
Final Interview: Focus on discussing your past experiences and project management skills. Technical knowledge will be assessed, but not in depth.
Aptitude Test: Includes QA and statistical mathematics, designed to gauge your understanding of the business.
Let’s go over some of the questions that Manthila gets about working with this client.
FAQ
1. Is this position open to international candidates?
Answer: Yes, the position is open to international candidates, especially if you have strong proficiency in both English and Japanese. The ability to work in a multicultural environment is key.
2. Will there be opportunities for training and development?
Answer: Absolutely. The company is committed to the continuous professional development of its employees. This may include in-house training programs, workshops, and opportunities for relevant certifications.
3. Are there opportunities for remote work?
Answer: Yes, the role offers flexibility for remote work. However, depending on project requirements, occasional office visits may be necessary.
4. What is the company culture like?
Answer: The company values innovation, collaboration, and diversity. As a leading tech company in Japan, it fosters a culture that is both technically driven and culturally inclusive.
5. How is performance evaluated in this role?
Answer: Performance is evaluated based on project success, team management effectiveness, and the ability to meet strategic objectives. Regular reviews and feedback sessions are part of the evaluation process.
6. What are the advancement opportunities within this role?
Answer: There are significant advancement opportunities. Successful candidates can move into higher managerial positions, take on larger projects, or even progress to roles in program management or executive leadership.
7. What kind of support can I expect in transitioning to this role, especially if relocating from another country?
Answer: The company provides support in terms of relocation assistance, cultural orientation, and language training, ensuring a smooth transition for international candidates.
Conclusion
Manthila recommended you get a cat. Click here to apply to this role!