EdOdyssey is a boutique study abroad provider and educational travel company. Founded in 2014, we work with colleges, universities, and secondary schools to create customized trips, first year experiences (FYE), and semester study abroad programs that are authentic and educational. We’ve traveled millions of miles with thousands of students and are on a mission to make transformative and meaningful global experiences part of more students’ education. Meet the team and learn more at www.EdOdyssey.com/about-us.

Japan Regional Manager (Contractor)

Location: Japan (Flexible – Preferred: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto)    

Position: Contract, Part-Time / Project-Based

Start Date: As soon as possible (target April 2026)

Position Summary & Opportunity

EdOdyssey is seeking an experienced Japan Regional Manager to join our global team and support the design, preparation, and delivery of high-quality educational travel programs throughout Japan.

This flexible contract role blends program design, vendor coordination, and on-the-ground leadership. The ideal candidate will be deeply familiar with Japan and passionate about creating meaningful, culturally grounded, and safe learning experiences for students from the United States (or other international contexts).

The Japan Regional Manager will collaborate closely with EdOdyssey’s Program Operations Manager, Program Operations team, and school partners to develop, coordinate, and lead programs that bring Japanese culture, history, and contemporary life to students in authentic and engaging ways.

Primary Responsibilities

Program Development & Management (up to 40 hours a month)

• Lead program design and proposal creation for all Japan programs in collaboration with the Program Operations team.

• Contribute to program vision, learning goals, and experiential design rooted in Japanese cultural context.

• Oversee registration and pre-departure processes for assigned programs, including student enrollment, communication, insurance enrollment, and flight coordination.

• Work with the marketing team to ensure Japan program webpages, itineraries, and digital assets are accurate and up to date.

• Participate in and support program-related events such as information sessions, orientations, and pre-departure meetings.

• Develop, manage, and reconcile program budgets; ensure transparent vendor payments and maintain accurate accounting records.

• Support program assessment, including student evaluations and post-program debriefs.

• Follow EdOdyssey protocols, health and safety procedures, and risk management standards.

• Manage communication and maintain strong, ongoing relationships with local vendors and partners across Japan.

• Book and confirm all program-related vendors—including transportation, accommodations, meals, workshops, and site visits—ensuring strong contracts, fair pricing, and reliable service delivery.

• Assess program staffing needs and develop Program Leader coverage plans for each Japan program.

On-the-Ground Student Program Leadership 

The Japan Regional Manager will also serve as Program Leader for short-term programs, providing group leadership, logistical management, and educational support in-country.

When the Japan Regional Manager is not available to serve as Program Leader, they will be responsible for recruiting, hiring, and preparing additional Program Leaders to support Japan programs, ensuring consistent program quality, safety, and alignment with organizational values.

Key responsibilities include:

• Serve as Program Leader for Japan programs when availability and scope allow.

• Recruit, vet, and recommend qualified Program Leaders when additional staffing is required.

• Support onboarding, training, and program preparation for hired Program Leaders, including program goals, logistics, safety protocols, and cultural context.

• Act as the primary liaison between Program Leaders and the Program Operations team and the school/partner before, during, and after each program.

• Lead on-site orientation, daily activities and ensure smooth execution of all logistics, including transportation, lodging, and group meals.

• Create a positive, inclusive, and safe environment for all participants.

• Facilitate reflection and discussion to help students engage with local culture and learning goals.

• Serve as the 24/7 in-country contact for health, safety, or logistical issues, coordinating with EdOdyssey’s U.S. headquarters as needed.

• Manage daily program budgets, handle cash disbursements, and submit receipts for reconciliation.

• Communicate proactively with faculty partners and the EdOdyssey team before, during, and after each program.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• 3+ years of experience coordinating or leading educational or cultural travel programs in Japan.
• Must currently reside in Japan and have legal right to work in the country.
• Demonstrated ability to manage vendors, negotiate pricing, and oversee complex logistics.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills in both English and Japanese.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with ability to juggle multiple priorities.
• Confidence leading student groups and managing diverse participant needs.
• Familiarity with Japanese geography, cultural norms, and regional networks.
• Proficiency in Google Suite, Zoom, and WhatsApp (or similar communication tools).
• Understanding of risk management and safety procedures for student travel.
• CPR/First Aid certification preferred (can be provided if needed).
• Can be away from home or other work for extended periods of time (9-14 days) while leading a program.

Compensation

Compensation will be commensurate with experience and services provided, with flexibility for either a flat project rate or hourly structure depending on scope and timing. All travel-related expenses (accommodations, meals, in-country transportation, and program activity fees) will be covered during program delivery periods.

About EdOdyssey

EdOdyssey is a boutique study abroad and educational travel organization. Founded in 2014, we work with colleges, universities, and secondary schools to create customized, high-impact programs around the world. Our mission is to make transformational travel part of every student’s education—connecting learners with people, places, and experiences that deepen understanding and inspire growth.

Core Values

We create authentic experiences for students and meaningful partnerships with communities.

We act with integrity and compassion, staying grounded in purpose.

We believe in the transformative power of travel to change people and the world.

Commitment to Diversity / EEO

We embrace diversity and strive to build a team that reflects the richness of the global communities we serve. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity/expression, age, disability, or veteran status.