One of Cogs’ partners, Gary Bremermann, recently took part in a webinar with UC San Diego’s School of Global Policy and Strategy. Hosted by Ulrike Schaede; director of the Japan Forum for Innovation and Technology, and joined by Cauitie Ocada; a Tokyo-based consultant, the three discuss the evolution of marketing in Japan. Drawing on his over twenty years of experience recruiting in-country, Gary shares his insights on what the future holds for the marketing industry in Japan. Check out the highlights below or view the full video on the school’s YouTube channel.
During the discussion, Gary points to what he sees as the biggest forces currently shaping the Japanese market. In particular, he highlights the blurring of lines between what were once separate and highly-specialized agencies. As more and more players enter the field and the ever-growing presence of social media lowers the barrier to entry, marketers and advertisers must continually fight for a piece of the available budgets. He goes on to state that those with the ability to interpret and utilize data quickly will ultimately be the winners.
Gary later tackles the subject of trying to find work in the marketing industry as a foreigner in Japan. While a difficult market to break into as a non-native, he assures viewers that it is possible. For most roles, a high level of Japanese language proficiency is essential, but he makes note of number-driven roles, such as data analysts, as an area of opportunity for those unable to obtain fluency.
Gary also points out Japanese headquarters of foreign businesses in Japan as a lead worth looking into. Ultimately, as he says, if you have world-class skills and the language ability to back it up, it doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, there is a job for you in Japan.
In case you missed it, Cogs recently established our first office in Tokyo. If you’re interested in career opportunities in Japan or in search of talent for your business, get in touch with us to learn how we can help.
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