Japan Esports Production Manager (Contractor)

Position Overview: The Japan Esports Production Manager will lead the coordination and execution of event production in the region, ensuring the highest quality of content and fan experiences. This role requires a deep understanding of the esports landscape, particularly in the Japanese market.

Key Responsibilities:

Vendor Sourcing & Management:

Oversee and coordinate vendor sourcing, selection, and hiring processes, including RFP creation, contract negotiation, payment processing, and reconciliation.
Ensure all vendors meet the highest standards of quality, creativity, and budgetary requirements.

Budget Management:

Create and manage comprehensive event production budgets with vendors/partners where applicable, ensuring cost-effectiveness while delivering high-quality content and experiences.
Support the Product Manager in making informed budget decisions to optimize the show’s success.

Event Production Oversight:

Collaborate closely with event production vendors to ensure that the execution aligns with the pre-agreed creative vision and quality standards.
Manage broadcast production for online, studio, and live events, coordinating all aspects including graphics, sponsorships, and publisher assets.

Broadcast Technical Requirements:

Oversee the technical setup for broadcasts, ensuring all equipment and systems meet the required specifications for live and recorded content.
Coordinate the setup and operation of video and audio equipment, including cameras, switchers, routers, microphones, and intercom systems.
Ensure the reliability of live streaming and recording setups, troubleshooting any issues in real time to maintain broadcast integrity.
Collaborate with technical teams to implement the latest advancements in broadcast technology, including streaming protocols (e.g., SRT, JPEG XS), encoding/decoding hardware, and cloud-based production tools.
Manage the integration of real-time graphics, overlays, and data feeds into the broadcast, ensuring seamless presentation during live events.
Work with teams to coordinate and execute technical rehearsals, ensuring all systems function smoothly before the live event.

Cross-Team Collaboration:

Work in close partnership with the APAC Esports Product, Broadcasting, Content, Marketing, and Commercial Partnerships teams to ensure seamless integration of product requirements into event production.
Coordinate with Global Event, Broadcast, and Production teams to adhere to global production guidelines.

Continuous Improvement:

Regularly review planning and execution processes, identifying areas for improvement and developing actionable plans.
Share insights and improvement plans with internal and external stakeholders to drive continuous enhancement of production quality.

Stakeholder Communication:

Effectively communicate project deliverables, priorities, milestones, and any changes to internal and external stakeholders.
Track progress and provide regular updates to senior leadership.

Collaboration with Riot Games Japan:

Partner closely with teams in Riot Games Japan on first-party and third-party events
Ensure all events reflect Riot Games’ brand values and meet fan expectations.

Qualifications:

Language Proficiency: Fluent in both English and Japanese - Business level English and Native level Japanese
Industry Knowledge: Deep familiarity with the esports scene in Japan.
Experience: Proven track record in managing event production, preferably within the esports industry.

Nice to Haves:

Proficiency in additional SEA languages.
Prior experience working in esports.
Knowledge of the latest streaming technology and production trends.
Creative vision to enhance products each season.
Familiarity with Riot Games products and esports programs (VALORANT, LoL, TFT).