Magazines Project Manager

About VIZ

VIZ is a multimedia entertainment company based in San Francisco, focusing on Japanese entertainment content adapted for the U.S. audience. The company produces a variety of products, including magazines, comics, graphic novels, videos, DVDs, and audio soundtracks. Each month, VIZ releases over 20 titles such as HAMTARO, YU-GI-OH!, DRAGON BALL Z, RANMA ½, POKEMON, SHONEN JUMP, GUNDAM, and INU-YASHA. As one of the leading comic publishers in the U.S., VIZ holds a market share exceeding 50% of Japanese comics in the U.S., catering to an estimated 15 million fans. It is a subsidiary of the prominent Japanese publishers Shogakukan and Shueisha Inc.

Role Overview

The Magazines Project Manager will work under the Vice President of Magazines to sustain the company’s market leadership by managing assigned magazine products effectively. The role involves developing product strategy, coordinating production, executing marketing campaigns, and maintaining fruitful relationships with licensors and licensees.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead product strategy, market research, and development efforts for assigned magazines.
• Create and implement marketing plans that fulfill business goals, including promotional campaigns to enhance visibility.
• Collaborate with sales, editorial, marketing, design, and operations teams for seamless execution of marketing initiatives.
• Monitor daily progress of marketing plans to ensure timely execution.
• Manage financial models and monitor return on investment.
• Analyze market data to recommend acquisition of new titles.
• Serve as primary contact with Japanese licensors to coordinate licensing approvals and asset procurement.
• Manage relationships with U.S. licensees and partners for collaborative promotions.
• Assist with translation of key reports and communications related to magazine business operations.

Qualifications and Skills

• Fluent proficiency in Japanese language (speaking, reading, writing) is essential.
• Understanding of Japanese business customs and organizational structures.
• Preferred knowledge of anime, manga, related magazines, and merchandise industries.
• Familiarity with the U.S. publishing sector and its distribution channels is a plus.
• Strong expertise in consumer and trade marketing, especially regarding media and promotional spending.
• Excellent English communication skills and ability to interact effectively with multicultural staff and clients.
• Aptitude for experimenting with new formats targeting computer games, internet, and emerging communication media.
• Proficient use of Windows environment and Microsoft Word as well as relevant editorial tools.
• Capacity to work cooperatively in a small team-focused organization.
• Ability to present information clearly to managers, clients, and public audiences.
• High attention to detail with strong follow-up skills to complete tasks efficiently and accurately.

Experience and Education

• Experience working within a Japanese business environment is mandatory.
• Background in consumer entertainment, media, or related industries is required.
• Previous exposure to marketing and public relations activities is preferred.
• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent from an accredited institution demonstrating relevant preparation for this role.

Work Environment and Conditions

• Office-based work setting.
• Approximately 85% of work involves using a video display terminal, requiring the ability to sit for long durations and follow ergonomics guidelines.
• Must maintain regular and reliable attendance.
• Flexibility to work non-standard hours, including occasional nights, based on business needs.
• Capability to handle multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines.

Company Benefits

• Comprehensive health coverage including chiropractic and acupuncture options.
• Dental and vision insurance plans.
• Life insurance along with short-term and long-term disability coverage.
• Flexible work scheduling options.
• Paid personal time off starting at 17 days per year plus approximately 11 paid holidays annually.
• Partial reimbursement for commuting or parking expenses.
• Fitness club memberships.
• Support for educational reimbursement.
• Causal dress policy for full-time employees.

Additional Information

This role does not include supervising other employees. Candidates must submit their resume and cover letter referencing the "Magazines Project Manager" position. Contact must be made via email or fax only; phone inquiries are not accepted.