Role Overview
SmartOSC is seeking a Senior Project Manager to lead the delivery of software projects and multi-project programs for our Japanese enterprise clients. You will be the primary owner of delivery quality, timeline, budget, and client relationship - working directly with Japanese stakeholders while coordinating offshore engineering teams in Vietnam channels.
Key Deliverables & Responsibilities
+ Own end-to-end delivery of one or more software projects for Japanese clients, ensuring scope, schedule, cost, and quality targets are met.
+ Serve as the main point of contact for Japanese client stakeholders - running meetings, reporting, and escalations directly in Japanese.
+ Lead project planning, resource allocation, risk management, and change management across the project lifecycle.
Manage and grow cross-functional offshore teams (BrSE,
developers, QA, BA), setting clear expectations and removing blockers.
+ Translate client business goals into clear delivery plans and coordinate alignment between client expectations and the offshore team.
+ Track and report project health (progress, budget, risks, KPIs) to both clients and internal leadership.
+ Standardize delivery practices, manage interdependencies across projects, and drive continuous improvement.
+ 8+ years in software project delivery, with at least 3 years in a PM/Program Manager role managing offshore or distributed teams.
+Proven track record delivering projects for Japanese clients.
+ Business-level Japanese (JLPT N2 or above; N1 strongly preferred) - able to lead client meetings, negotiate, and report in Japanese.
+ Strong command of project management methodologies (Agile/Scrum, Waterfall, or hybrid) and tools (e.g., Jira, Redmine, MS Project).
+ Solid understanding of the software development lifecycle and the ability to engage credibly on technical trade-offs.
+ Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and problem-solving skill
Nice to have:
+ PMP, or equivalent certification.
+ Experience working or living in Japan.
+ Background in [relevant domain - e.g., e-commerce, fintech, enterprise systems]