Associate Director - Strategic Advisory

We are working with an international advisory firm looking to strengthen its advisory capabilities in Asia Pacific, with a particular focus on China and Japan. We are interested in commercially minded professionals who combine deep geographic and industry expertise with established relationships, strong commercial judgment and an entrepreneurial approach. The emphasis is on understanding how governments, industries, investors and international markets interact, and helping multinational corporations navigate complex commercial and strategic matters involving China, Japan and the wider region. The successful individual will play an important role in developing the firm's regional expertise, client relationships and advisory capabilities, working closely with colleagues internationally. Areas of Interest We are particularly interested in individuals with a sophisticated understanding of the political, economic, regulatory and commercial environments in China and/or Japan. Energy, oil and gas, and the energy transition. Mining, extractives and critical minerals. Technology, semiconductors, AI and advanced manufacturing. Aerospace, defence and national security-related industries. Healthcare, pharmaceuticals and life sciences. Infrastructure and other strategically important sectors. Of particular interest are individuals who understand the relationships between governments, regulators, corporations and international investors, and how these influence commercial decisions, market access, investment and international business activity. Experience and relationships spanning both China and Japan would be particularly attractive, although deep expertise in either market would also be highly relevant. The Role Advise multinational corporations and investors on complex commercial, geopolitical, regulatory and industry-related matters involving China, Japan and Northeast Asia. Provide informed perspectives on government priorities, industry developments, market dynamics and their implications for corporate strategy. Help clients understand unfamiliar or complex business environments, identify opportunities and navigate commercial and institutional challenges. Draw upon established industry, government and institutional relationships to provide insight into regional markets and developments. Develop relationships with senior corporate executives, investors, industry leaders and other influential stakeholders. Identify and originate advisory opportunities through professional networks, referrals and proactive business development. Lead strategic advisory assignments, working collaboratively with specialist intelligence and research colleagues internationally. Candidate Profile We are open to a wide range of professional backgrounds, including: Strategic advisory, geopolitical advisory and specialist consulting. Government affairs, regulatory affairs, public policy Investment banking, private capital, M&A. Legal experience advising multinational clients on commercial, regulatory or investment matters. Government, diplomacy, intelligence, trade and economic policy. International institutions working closely with governments, corporations and investors, eg think tanks. Candidates should demonstrate: Deep expertise in China and/or Japan, including a strong understanding of the relevant political, economic, institutional and commercial environments. Established senior relationships across corporations, investors, industry, government or other influential institutions. A sophisticated understanding of how government policy, regulation, geopolitics and commercial interests influence international business decisions. Experience engaging directly with senior executives, investors and other decision-makers. Strong commercial instincts and the ability to develop relationships that can generate advisory opportunities. The ability to translate complex political, economic and industry developments into commercially relevant perspectives for clients. Intellectual curiosity, sound judgment and strong communication skills. An entrepreneurial mindset, with the confidence and initiative to develop business and help establish new capabilities. A collaborative approach and willingness to work closely with international colleagues. Mandarin Chinese and/or Japanese language capabilities would be highly advantageous. The Opportunity This is an opportunity to help develop a distinctive international strategic intelligence and advisory business. The firm offers a small, collaborative and entrepreneurial environment, working closely with colleagues across international markets. We are looking for individuals who enjoy engaging with clients, developing relationships, identifying commercial opportunities and helping build specialist capabilities. The opportunity will particularly appeal to those who want to play a meaningful role in shaping a growing business, rather than simply joining an established team. #J-18808-Ljbffr Sloane Shorey Consulting