Director Business Development - Japan

Founded in 2020, IDR is a global expert network delivering fast, reliable, and cost-effective insights through a vetted pool of experts. With 250+ employees across 8 global offices, IDR operates 24/7 and is trusted by leading brands worldwide.

We are seeking a highly driven and commercially astute Director, Business Development to lead client acquisition and revenue growth across our client solutions within Japan. This role is responsible for developing strategic client relationships, driving new business opportunities, and positioning our services as a critical insight partner to clients. The ideal candidate has experience exceeding meaningful quotas by selling expert network services, primary research, or B2B insight solutions to market research companies, consulting firms, corporates, and private equity firms, and thrives in a fast-paced, target-driven environment.

• Utilize diverse lead generation channels — including professional networks, conferences/events, social media, sales tools, and direct outreach — to identify, engage, and build relationships with key decision-makers within prospective and existing client organizations.
• Design and run highly targeted, multi-touch outreach campaigns to generate robust pipeline opportunities.
• Lead consultative sales discussions to understand client research and intelligence needs, positioning solutions accordingly.
• Respond promptly to inbound inquiries, manage objections effectively, and ensure structured follow-ups to move opportunities through the sales cycle.
• Represent the company at industry events, networking forums, and conferences to build brand visibility and generate leads.
• Share client insights, market feedback, and competitive intelligence with internal stakeholders to support product development and go-to-market strategies.
• Collaborate with delivery, research, and operations teams to ensure seamless execution and service quality.

• Maintain accurate and timely records of all sales activities, pipeline updates, and client interactions in CRM systems.
• Ensure account and contact data remains current and well-organized.
• Lead the preparation of tailored commercial proposals, pricing models, and service agreements for new and expanded engagements.
• Track and analyze sales KPIs, pipeline health, and revenue performance to ensure alignment with targets.
• Provide regular forecasts and performance reports to senior leadership.

6-10+ years in business development or a client-facing commercial role with a proven record of exceeding quotas/targets.

Background working with Market Research, Fortune 500, Global Consulting, and/or Financial Services companies highly preferred.

Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.

Self-starter with strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities.

Proficiency in CRM tools and understanding of B2B sales methodologies.

Adaptable and able to work in a fast-paced, quickly evolving environment.