Account Director, Japan

Company Introduction:

Mintel ’s clients choose us because they know we’re drawing on Mintel data, knowledge, expertise , and insights that are rooted in the rigorous, multi-disciplinary research on which our reputation has been built.

To support the business priorities of our top global and regional accounts, our Strategic Client Partnership Model provides high-growth, high-value clients with a dedicated team of experts, ensuring we can deliver tailored support aligned to their unique business needs.

We are seeking a strategic Account Director for Strategic Partnership Accounts to own and grow a portfolio of these high-growth global and regional accounts, with a focus on deepening client relationships, identifying commercial opportunities, and building long-term value.

What You Will Be Doing:

You will own and grow a portfolio of Mintel’s largest and highest-value global and regional accounts. As the Account Director for Strategic Partnership Accounts, you will be responsible for renewing key client relationships, identifying growth opportunities, and positioning Mintel as a valued and preferred research partner. Day-to-day responsibilities include:

Owning the commercial relationship for key accounts in your market, working closely with global account managers to support best practices and drive growth across Mintel regions.

Building strong relationships across multiple levels of the client organization to identify opportunities for consultancy sales, contract upgrades, and long-term account growth.

Leading regular strategic reviews with internal stakeholders to track progress against account plans and adjust priorities where needed.

Developing and delivering creative business solutions that demonstrate ROI, strengthen client relationships, and support successful renewals.

Meeting commercial KPIs set by the APAC management team, including contract upgrades, consultancy sales, and renewal targets.

Maintaining accurate CRM records of client details, meetings, objectives , opportunities, and account activity.

Planning and executing a strategic reach-out plan aligned with the annual account plan.

Collaborating closely with internal business teams to ensure clients receive a consistent , high-quality experience across touchpoints.

We Are Looking for People Who Are:

Commercially-minded : You can identify growth opportunities within existing client relationships and are comfortable leading conversations around renewals, upgrades, and consultancy solutions.

Relationship-driven: You enjoy building trusted partnerships with senior stakeholders and navigating complex client organizations.

Strategic and proactive: You are able to translate account goals into clear plans and take ownership of driving them forward.

Collaborative: You work effectively with global account managers, internal stakeholders, and cross-functional teams to deliver the best client experience.

Client-focused: You are motivated by understanding client needs and showing how Mintel’s data, insights, and expertise can support their business goals.

Self-directed: You are comfortable managing priorities independently and taking accountability for the success of your account portfolio.

A strong communicator: You can adapt your communication style for different clients, seniority levels, and internal business partners.

Must-Have Qualifications  

8 + years of experience in sales or account management 

Native-level Japanese and business-level English proficiency  

Strong skills in Excel and PowerPoint 

Nice-to-Have Qualifications  

Experience in the FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) industry 

Experience in the Research industry 

Equal Opportunity Employer: Race/Color/Sex/Sexual Orientation/Gender Identity/Religion/National Origin/Disability/Vets