Japan Launch
PSG was looking to hire its first Japan-based leader to spearhead their expansion there without establishing a physical office. This meant finding someone not just fluent in Japanese and English as well as deeply familiar with the nuances of the Japanese market, but someone willing to take a leap of faith that things would work out even without an entity on the ground. Crucially, they also needed experience leading similar international growth initiatives, ideally for another major global sports team, and the cross-cultural communication skills to bridge the gap between Paris and Tokyo.
The Challenge.
This was a significant challenge. Japan's talent pool is notoriously small for bilingual professionals, even smaller for those specializing in the niche field of international sports management, and minuscule for someone willing to take such a role without some kind of entity and support on the ground. Needless to say, finding someone with the right combination of language skills, industry experience, cultural sensitivity, and risk appetite was a tall order.
Our Approach.
Our approach targeted the niche sports management industry in Japan:
We began by mapping key sports leagues, teams, and agencies, recognizing the limited talent pool. This allowed us to identify individuals with any international experience, whether working for Japanese teams trying to attract international fans, or for global sports organizations.
We then engaged with these potential candidates, thoroughly evaluating their experience and focusing on its direct relevance to PSG's needs.
Finally, we shortlisted candidates who not only met the role criteria but also understood and accepted the unique situation: working remotely, initially as a self-contracted employee, for a company without a physical presence in Japan.
The Outcome.
After a year-long search, we found the perfect candidate. She not only met all requirements but also brought valuable diversity as a female professional in a male-dominated industry.
The subsequent four-month negotiation process between PSG and the candidate, which we successfully navigated, ultimately sealed the deal. What’s more, this candidate continues to build PSG’s offering across Asia, with an expanded remit that now also includes South Korea.