Head of U.S. Business | Japanese Bilingual

Japanese Bilingual Head of U.S. Business / COO Candidate

Location: Los Angeles, CA

Compensation: $200,000–$230,000

Relocation & Visa Support Available

About the Opportunity

A well-established Japanese premium food company is seeking a senior business leader to drive its next phase of U.S. growth.

Based in Los Angeles, the U.S. business currently operates primarily through e-commerce and is entering an expansion phase, including plans for a flagship retail location.

This is a hands-on leadership role with end-to-end responsibility for U.S. strategy, growth, operations, and P&L, working closely with headquarters in Japan.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the U.S. business and growth strategy.
• Lead and expand the existing e-commerce business.
• Lead the development and launch of a flagship retail location, with potential for future multi-location expansion.
• Own business planning, budgeting, forecasting, and P&L performance.
• Identify growth opportunities through market and competitive analysis.
• Build the operational foundation required for sustainable growth.
• Serve as the key liaison between the U.S. business and headquarters in Japan.
• Lead the local team while remaining actively involved in day-to-day execution.

Qualifications

Required

• Current or previous expatriate experience with the U.S. subsidiary of a Japanese company.
• Experience developing and executing international or overseas business strategies.
• Strong hands-on experience in business planning, execution, and problem-solving.
• Experience managing budgets, business performance, and P&L.
• Proven team leadership experience.
• Full professional fluency in Japanese, including the ability to communicate and negotiate effectively with senior executives in Japan.
• Business-level English proficiency and the ability to operate effectively in the U.S. business environment.
• Ability to thrive as a hands-on leader in a lean organization.

Preferred

• Experience in food, consumer products, trading, retail, or related industries.
• E-commerce management or growth experience.
• Experience launching or expanding a business, retail operation, or new market.
• Strong interest in Japanese food and culture.

Ideal Candidate

A strategic yet hands-on leader who understands Japanese corporate culture and can effectively bridge Japan headquarters and the U.S. market. The ideal candidate values long-term brand building, product quality, and customer experience.

Compensation & Support

Annual Base Salary: $200,000–$230,000, depending on experience and qualifications.

Benefits and relocation support may include:

• Medical and dental insurance (approximately 80% company-paid)
• Company vehicle or vehicle support
• Housing assistance
• Company-sponsored visa support, including applicable legal fees
• Company-paid airfare to the U.S. for the employee and eligible family members
• Additional support depending on individual circumstances

Initial Training in Japan

Approximately 3–4 months of initial training in Japan is expected. Candidates currently residing in the U.S. may also be required to complete this training. Applicable travel and accommodation expenses will be covered by the company.

• The title upon joining will be determined based on the candidate’s experience and qualifications.