Research Assistant at a Tokyo-based Think Tank


This is an exciting and rare opportunity to work on the front lines of informing public debate and shaping Japan's domestic and global policy.


Asia Pacific Initiative (AP Initiative) is a Tokyo-based independent think tank established in 2011. It was originally established in response to the Fukushima disaster of March 2011. In 2017, it restructured from Rebuild Japan Initiative Foundation (RJIF) to AP Initiative, reflecting its shift from domestic policy issues to foreign policy issues in the Asia Pacific region. Its mission is to critically investigate the challenges facing Japan and the Asia-Pacific region, strengthen Japan's role in upholding the liberal internal order and act as an incubator for innovative policy proposals.


The Chairman of AP Initiative, Yoichi Funabashi is the former editor-in-chief of the Asahi Shimbun and one of Japan's most prominent and internationally respected public intellectuals. AP Initiative regularly collaborates with globally recognised institutions such as Harvard University, University of Cambridge, World Economic Forum, Brookings, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Center for American Progress, Council on Foreign Relations, Chatham House, Australia National University etc.


You can find more information about AP Initiative and its Chairman via the following link: https://apinitiative.org/en/


The role:

The personal research assistant for Yoichi Funabashi. Depending on experience, the candidate may also be asked to support or manage events and projects. Since the candidate will be working directly with the Chairman, this is a key strategic position within the Foundation with a high degree of responsibility.


Job responsibilities:

-Research/writing including articles for global media on Japan's domestic politics, society, economy and technological innovation, as well as geopolitics in the Indo-Pacific region

-Managing Dr. Funabashi's schedule and overseas business trips

-Creating research memos

-Speech writing and preparation for panels

-Event management

-Cross border collaborations and project management

-Liaising with world leaders, government officials, CEOs, policy analysts, and others

-Translation to support office operations and public relations activities

-Transcription work



What we are looking for:

• Native English speaker

• Skilled writer

• Advanced Japanese language skills (above business level, at least N2)

• Excellent teamwork and communication skills

• Interest and knowledge of Japanese and Asian politics or international affairs

• Ability to work at pace

• Strong organizational skills

• Able to prioritise and compromise effectively

• Aspiration to work in politics, journalism or academia

• Preferably living in Japan now and/or experience of a Japanese working environment


Conditions:

Pay: Dependent upon previous experience

Others: Commuting fees and insurance covered

Job type: Full time

Working hours: 9:00-17:30 (overtime and occasional weekends required)

Starting date: January 2019

Visa sponsorship possible for an exceptional candidate.


For those apt and interested, please send your CV in English and Japanese
and a covering letter in English including reasons for applying, strengths you
will bring to the position and your current situation to Harry Dempsey on

harry.dempsey@apinitiative.org.


Please contact if you have any questions.
Unsuccessful applicants will not be contacted. Apologies in advance.