Business Development Manager - Audio at Side in Tokyo, Tokyo, JP

We’re looking for a Business Development Manager to drive growth for our Game Audio division in Japan. This role focuses on expanding partnerships and revenue for our voice-over, dialogue recording, and Foley production services across console, PC, and mobile game developers.

You’ll be the face of our Tokyo-based studio, building relationships, creating proposals, and developing new business opportunities with both domestic and international clients. This position is ideal for someone who combines commercial acumen with a deep understanding of game audio production. Sales & Account Growth: Lead business development for voice-over, Foley, and full-service game audio recording. Build and maintain relationships with producers, audio directors, and localization managers across major and indie studios.

Market Development: Identify new opportunities by tracking emerging trends in game audio, localization, and production pipelines. Expand our client base beyond Japan into key global markets.

Client Consultation: Conduct detailed discovery sessions to understand project needs, scope recording and post-production requirements, and develop tailored proposals.

Collaboration: Partner with our audio production, localization, and global BD teams to deliver cohesive client solutions.

Strategic Planning: Develop go-to-market strategies for new services and technologies. Provide feedback to internal teams to enhance offerings and competitiveness.

Performance Management: Own your revenue targets, manage forecasting, and maintain an active CRM pipeline.

• Requirements

  • 5+ years of experience in business development, sales, or production within the audio or entertainment industry (preferably video game audio, post-production, or localization).
  • Proven track record of managing client relationships and closing deals in creative or technical service environments.
  • Strong understanding of the voice recording pipeline—from casting and recording through editing and delivery.
  • Native-level Japanese with strong written and verbal communication skills.
  • Proficiency with CRM tools and MS Office/Google Workspace.
  • Self-driven, organized, and comfortable managing projects end-to-end.
  • Passion for video games and sound design.

• Preferred

  • Existing network of contacts among audio directors, localization producers, or game developers in Japan and abroad.
  • Business-level English proficiency (TOEIC 750+ or equivalent).
  • Experience working in or selling to AAA, AA, or mobile game studios.
  • Background in audio production, project management, or post-production coordination.
  • Language Requirements: Native-level proficiency in Japanese.

• Annual salary review.

• Eligibility for incentive bonuses.

• Transportation allowance (up to 50,000 yen).

• Business casual dress code.

• Comprehensive social insurance.

• Annual paid leave.

• Access to external welfare services.

• Refresh space with coffee machine and office convenience store.

Who we are

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 Japan in 1994, Side has grown to become a global force in the video games industry, with over 40 studios in 15 countries worldwide and offices across North America, Europe, South America, and Asia.

Our industry-leading services include codev, art production, localization, audio production, quality assurance, localization QA, player support, community management, and datasets. For more information, visit http://www.side.inc