Manager, Sesame Workshop Japan
International Media Business | Hybrid in Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan | Full Time and Contract
About Sesame Workshop
Sesame Workshop is the global nonprofit behind Sesame Street and so much more. For over 50 years, we have worked at the intersection of education, media, and research, creating joyful experiences that enrich minds and expand hearts, all in service of empowering each generation to build a better world. Our beloved characters, iconic shows, outreach in communities, and more bring playful early learning to families in more than 190 countries and advance our mission to help children everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder. Learn more at www.sesame.org and follow Sesame Workshop on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and X.
Job Summary
The Manager is a member of the Sesame Street Japan and reports to VP, GM and Executive Producer, Japan(NY) and Director of Business Development (Tokyo). The Manager will support the day-to-day operations of Sesame Street Japan, serving as a liaison between external partners and internal teams in Tokyo/New York. This role provides coordination support across broadcast production, music distribution, healthcare programming, social impact initiatives, digital channels, and licensed consumer products. We are looking for someone organized, bilingual, and relationship-savvy enough to keep things moving, flag what needs a decision, and ensure deadlines are met.
Responsibilities
Delivery
· Coordinate broadcast content production with broadcast and production partners, including delivery schedules, material reviews, production logistics, puppeteer arrangements, and payment processing, communicating primarily in Japanese.
· Coordinate music distribution activities with Japan-based label partners, including metadata registration, release scheduling, and promotional coordination.
· Deliver monthly operations for a licensed healthcare membership program as the primary operational contact, including content distribution, design reviews, and partner communications.
· Execute on-site event operations, including character appearance logistics, vendor coordination, and run-of-show management.
· Maintain project trackers, timelines, and partner contact lists, and complete contract processing, invoicing, and expense coordination with Finance and Legal.
· Ensure timely and accurate delivery of all operational milestones by monitoring schedules, tracking dependencies, and proactively addressing risks and delays.
· Execute content campaign operations and social impact initiatives, including production timelines, launch preparation, awareness material production, event logistics, and post-launch follow-through.
· Manage content review and approval workflows for Japan YouTube channel and social media platforms, including calendar tracking, partner submissions, and approvals, and coordinate asset procurement and delivery to support partner marketing needs.
Engagement
· Partner with internal cross-functional teams (Production, Marketing, Legal, Finance) and external stakeholders (broadcast partners, licensees, agencies, and vendors) to support content, distribution, and event initiatives.
· Collaborate with stakeholders across production, marketing, and PR to align on campaign planning, launch readiness, and post-launch communication.
· Engage with social impact partners and committees to support coordination, communication, and initiative planning.
· Coordinate with partners on Japan YouTube and social media content planning, including calendar alignment and promotional opportunities.
· Consult with licensees on brand-related copy and marketing materials to ensure alignment with brand standards.
. Present and advocate for Japan market updates in global marketing meetings to ensure alignment with global stakeholders.
. Build and maintain strong relationships with Japan based partners to support collaboration and shared goals.
. Alight Japanese market activities with global strategies by collaborating with international teams and supporting consistency in execution.
Minimum Qualifications Required:
· Business-level English and Japanese — both written and spoken
· 4-5 years of experience in project coordination, marketing, content production, media, or a related field
· Clear and professional written and verbal communication skills in both Japanese and English
· Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
· Ability to work independently across time zones in a fast-paced, international environment
· Familiarity with Japanese business culture and communication norms
· Proficiency with AI productivity tools
Other Preferred Qualifications:
· Background in broadcast, music distribution, healthcare programming, or licensed entertainment
· Experience with digital channel operations, including YouTube and social media management
· Experience in a nonprofit, international organization, or mission-driven environment
Equal Opportunity Employment (EOE) Statement
Sesame Workshop is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, national origin, predisposing genetic characteristics, pregnancy-related condition, familial status, domestic violence victim status, or protected veteran status and will not be discriminated against on the basis of disability.
PSEA Statement
Sesame Workshop is an equal-opportunity employer. All employment decisions are based on the business needs, job requirements & suitability of the candidate. Sesame Workshop strictly follows the Child Safeguarding Policy, and the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Policy. These have been developed to ensure the maximum protection of program participants from exploitation and to clarify the responsibilities of Sesame Workshop staff, consultants, visitors to the program and partner organization, and the standards of behavior expected from them.
