Project Associate & Innovation Consultant, CIC Catalyst - Tokyo, JP

We are seeking a motivated Project Associate to join our consulting firm, which specializes in providing innovation services to technology companies and government agencies. The successful candidate will be responsible for supporting Project Managers to manage projects with better quality that drive innovation, from strategy development to execution. This role requires a good understanding of technology trends, project management methodologies, and the ability to work with diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

Supporting Project Managers to manage projects with better quality that drive innovation, from strategy development to execution; expanding CIC Catalyst influence and business operations in Japan; coordinating and liaising with all internal and external stakeholders based throughout the CIC network; expanding projects to private sectors; creating new innovation clusters for industries across CIC network; expanding CIC Catalyst’s market access services to new industries and the East Asian market; creating new innovation products and services that can scale throughout CIC network; assisting in the development and management of project plans, timelines, and budgets; supporting the definition of project scope, goals, and deliverables; monitoring project progress, identifying potential risks, and assisting in implementing strategies to keep projects on track; assisting in drafting plans for new projects and supporting proposals to potential clients; serving as a support point of contact for clients; helping build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders; participating in regular meetings with clients; collaborating with project teams; contributing to a collaborative work environment; assisting in ensuring that all project deliverables meet quality standards; supporting the preparation and presentation of regular project status reports; participating in post-project evaluations

Requirements

Motivated individual with a solid work ethic, eager to learn and capable of handling multiple tasks while maintaining attention to detail; good communication skills, with experience in creating presentations for potential customers; familiar with working in teams and supporting partnership and stakeholder management, as well as community development efforts; experience in assisting with project coordination in consulting environments, with some exposure to drafting business plans and proposals; capable of supporting multiple projects simultaneously and willing to take on increasing responsibilities over time; eager to gain a deeper understanding of innovation processes, technology trends, and industry regulations; 2+ years of project management experience, preferably in a consulting environment or related industry; developing project management skills with experience in supporting the implementation of cross-functional programs; strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage effectively with diverse audiences; eager to support startups and contribute to innovation initiatives; fluent in English and Japanese; strategic thinker with a proactive approach to problem-solving; great communication skills and teamwork; taking responsibility and ownership of assigned tasks; exceptional leadership and team-building skills; adaptability and resilience in a dynamic global business environment

Benefits

Competitive salary commensurate with experience; commuting/transportation allowance; monthly massage session; allocated budget for training; retirement allowance after successfully passing the probation period; possibility of conversion to a full-time permanent position