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).