Business Development Manager | Localization Services (Japan)

Job summary:

Permanent | Hybrid (2 days in-office, 3 remote) | Competitive Base + Commission At Side, we help game studios bring their stories to every player, in every language. Our Localization and QA teams deliver culturally authentic, technically precise experiences that ensure games resonate across global markets. We’re seeking a Business Development Manager to expand our Localization and QA services in Japan. This client-facing role will focus on building relationships with game studios and publishers, driving new partnerships, and representing Side as a trusted ally in delivering exceptional game experiences worldwide. Key Responsibilities Drive Growth: Identify and develop new business opportunities for Localization, LQA, and QA testing within the gaming industry and adjacent technology sectors. Strategic Outreach: Build and execute go-to-market plans for targeted studios and publishers, tailoring proposals to meet each client’s technical and creative needs. Client Relationships: Cultivate and maintain long-term partnerships with producers, localization managers, and executives, representing Side with credibility and insight. Full Sales Cycle Ownership: Manage the entire sales process—from prospecting and pitching through negotiation, closing, and post-sale handoff. Collaboration: Work closely with internal delivery, operations, and marketing teams to ensure seamless onboarding and delivery of services. Market Intelligence: Stay current on industry trends, competitor offerings, and emerging localization technologies to inform strategic decisions. Brand Representation: Attend trade shows, conferences, and networking events to expand Side’s visibility and build trusted industry connections. Proven experience in business development or sales, ideally within the video games or technology outsourcing industries. Demonstrable success in selling services preferably QA, localization, or game development support functions. A strong network within the gaming industry is highly advantageous (other industries welcome). Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills. Ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously and operate independently in a fast-paced environment. Knowledge of game development lifecycles and localization/QA processes is highly desirable. Willingness to travel domestically and internationally for meetings, conferences, and client events. Native-level Japanese and fluent English proficiency. Flexibility with working hours when needed to support international clients. Working Conditions Location: 7F Front Place Yotsuya, 3-2-1 Yotsuya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 160-0004 Work Hours: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM (includes 1-hour break) Work Style: Hybrid — 2 days in-office, 3 days remote per week

Benefits:

Hybrid work system with 2 days a week in the office and 3 days a week remotely Incentive bonus Transportation expenses paid as stipulated (up to ¥50,000) Various types of social insurance Annual paid leave system Membership of external welfare service Refreshment space, coffee machine and office convenience store

About Side:

Side (formerly PTW) is a global video game development and services provider, offering technical and creative solutions to many of the largest developers and studios around the world. Founded in 2009 and drawing on 30+ years' experience from our parent company in Japan, Side has since grown to become a global force with 20 studios in 14 countries across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia. Our industry-leading services include game development, art production, audio production, quality assurance, localization, localization QA, player support, community management, and datasets. Help us bring stories to the world! Join a global team of passionate gamers and contribute to delivering unforgettable game experiences. Experience our side of life. For more information, visit www.side.inc.