Connecting Global Strategies with Local Market Success
Leveraging deep expertise in Japanese language, culture, and business practices to help Western companies thrive in Japan and Japanese businesses succeed abroad.
About
About Christian Nielsen – Your Expert in Japanese Business Culture and Communication
Bridging Western and Japanese business cultures through language fluency, cultural expertise, and the ability to detect intercultural communication challenges.
With over 25 years of experience in Japanese and European business environments, I specialize in aligning global strategies with the realities of local markets. Having worked extensively within B2B industries, with focus automotive, I understand the unique challenges businesses face in cross-cultural contexts. Fluent in Japanese (JLPT N2) and deeply knowledgeable about the nuances of Japanese business culture, I help companies avoid misunderstandings, read between the lines, and build strong relationships that lead to success in the Japanese market.
Tailored Consulting Services for Your Business Success
I believe that understanding cultural nuances is the key to unlocking business potential. My commitment goes beyond one-way execution of goal; I dive deep into the heart of Japanese business practices, ensuring that your strategies resonate with local expectations, motivate and empower your sales force. Whether you’re looking to enter new markets or strengthen existing relationships, my tailored consulting services are designed to empower your business with the insights needed for success. Join me on a journey where your global ambitions meet local expertise, and watch your business thrive in the dynamic landscape of Japan and beyond.
Strategic Business Development
Expanding into Japanese or European B2B markets—particularly in automotive—requires more than market analysis. It’s about understanding the local business culture and knowing how to communicate effectively across borders. I offer tailored strategies to help businesses successfully enter and expand in these regions, ensuring that global goals align with local realities.
Cross-Cultural Leadership and Communication Training
Leading cross-border teams can present unique challenges. I provide customized training to help executives and managers in B2B sectors, including automotive, develop the cultural sensitivity needed to thrive in global environments. My programs focus on detecting hidden cultural differences, improving communication, and fostering stronger relationships between global headquarters and local teams.
Sales Team Mentoring and Value-Selling Workshops
In B2B industries, especially in automotive, sales success depends on understanding customer expectations and local business practices. My workshops and mentoring programs equip sales teams with the skills to build long-lasting relationships with Japanese customers, focusing on value-selling and addressing the cultural nuances that can impact sales negotiations.
Online Learnings
Supercharging overall efficiency before, during and after the trainings and workshops: Online course available to prepare participants for the trainings; available also during and after completion as refresher sessions to retain the learned and practiced contents.
Skills
Skills and Expertise
With a focus on B2B sales expertise in Japan, Christian Nielsen drives commercial ownership and enhances sales team performance through tailored strategies. His ability to bridge business cultures between East and West ensures smooth collaboration, effective communication, and sustainable growth for companies navigating cross-cultural environments.
- B2B Sales Expertise Japan & Global 98%
- Bridging Business Cultures – East & West 90%
- Driving Commercial Ownership & Team Performance 85%
Step by Step Approach
Step 1: Initial Consultation – Getting to Know Each Other
Let’s have an initial conversation to understand your needs and determine if we are the right fit to work together.
Step 2: Defining the Problem – Understanding the Background - Setting Clear, Measurable Goals
I work with you to deeply understand your challenges, the unterlying root causes, and define measurable goals that align with your business objectives.
Step 3: Analysis & Solutions – Developing and Evaluating Options
I conduct an in-depth analysis of your business, culture, and market conditions with specific focus on sales and business development,- to develop tailored strategies. These solutions are designed to fit your unique needs and drive success.
Step 4: Implementation – Ensuring Effective Execution
Together, we ensure the successful implementation of the strategies, from execution to monitoring, helping you achieve sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Timeline
Work History
New OEM Project Acquisition Mentor & Coach
Continental Automotive Japan
May 2023 ~
- Mentor & coach acquisition leaders + teams for next generation opportunities.
- Coordination & execution of sales competency development measures.
Head of Business Development J-OEMs, Head of Sales Planning & Governing
Continental Automotive Japan
August 2014 – July 2019
- Led a global sales team in Japan and overseas, managing a €200M Japan OEM business.
- Drove new business opportunities and aligned strategies with corporate goals.
- Coached the team in change management and claim management.
- Improved communication between Japan and overseas stakeholders.
- Conducted efficiency workshops to enhance team focus and performance.
- Led sales and budget planning efforts across the global team.
Country Manager, CEO
IKA Japan K.K.
December 1997 – March 2004
- Established a fully owned Japanese subsidiary of German HQ, expanding the sales network to over 200 dealers nationwide.
- Recruited and trained all local staff.
- Held full business ownership and P&L responsibility, achieving profitability from year one.
Head of Sales Planning & Governing / new OEM Project Acquisition Lead
Continental Automotive Germany
August 2019 – April 2023
- Consolidated and transferred all sales planning related activities to central best-cost location.
- Led key acquisitions for Japan OEMs & European OEMs.
- Conducted early engagement for new European OEM for Business Unit HMI.
- Internal trainer change + claim management for automotive.
Senior Sales Manager
Siemens VDO Automotive / Continental Automotive Germany
April 2004 – July 2014
- Managed all commercial aspects of Japan OEM business in Europe, from acquisition to contract negotiation.
- Oversaw follow-up on change points of commercial relevance.
- Supported overseas departments on all commercial matters.
Contact
Business Consultation
Get In Touch
Quick Contact
Phone
+81 70 9025 5351 or +49 172 9796 748
Address
Yokohama, Japan