Managing Editor, Character IP (Manga & Anime)

About the role

Duolingo is looking for a Managing Editor, Character IP to lead its manga and anime expansion in Japan. The role is hands-on: developing Duo's Japanese character voice, writing plots when needed, finding the right manga artists and building the studio and TV network relationships that turn a concept into something millions watch. The roadmap is manga first, then anime, with a TV morning show slot as the target format. The role reports to the Director of Design Studio Brand, with a dotted line to the Director of Country Marketing Japan and Korea.

Key responsibilities

• Set and uphold Duolingo's quality bar across all creative projects in the pipeline
• Partner with Design Studio Creative Directors to define the Japanese character profile (tone of voice, personality, backstory) while respecting the global character bible
• Write plots and lead original story development when needed
• Scout and brief manga artists and illustrators, and build relationships with publishers and editors to launch manga projects
• Select and manage anime production studios, handling contracts, budgets, schedules and quality
• Pitch to TV networks and build relationships to secure a morning show slot
• Set visual quality standards for TV, streaming and short-form formats, and keep global and local stakeholders aligned

Required profile

• Hands-on manga editing or directing experience at a publisher, editorial production company or IP firm
• Proven ability to write original plots, not just manage others
• Sharp editorial instincts for capturing a character's voice
• Real relationships with publishers, manga artists and writers, with a track record of getting projects made
• Working knowledge of anime production: studio contracts, budgets and quality at fair value
• Connections with major TV networks and experience pitching broadcast slots
• Business-level English, with strong written English

Nice to have

• Experience taking a manga property through to anime adaptation
• Familiarity with social-native formats (vertical, short-form)
• Background in brand licensing, merchandise or IP business development
• Experience with inbound or outbound IP localization

The salary range is 17,178,000 to 25,767,100 JPY, supplemented by equity compensation.