Legal Counsel – Entertainment IP & Licensing

Legal Counsel – Entertainment IP & Licensing at Sony Group Corporation

Sony Group Corporation, a global leader in technology, entertainment, and gaming headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, is looking for a legal counsel to join its Legal & Compliance Division. Sony's entertainment portfolio spans Sony Music, Sony Pictures, PlayStation, and Aniplex, making this a unique opportunity at the intersection of law and creative industries.

About the Role

You will advise on intellectual property licensing, content distribution agreements, and entertainment law matters across Sony's diverse business segments. The role requires expertise in Japan's Copyright Act (著作権法), the Trademark Act (商標法), and the Unfair Competition Prevention Act (不正競争防止法), as well as familiarity with international IP frameworks.

Working from Sony's headquarters in the Shinagawa/Minato-ku area, you will collaborate with business teams across music, film, gaming, and anime divisions. You will handle licensing negotiations with domestic and international content partners, advise on talent agreements, and support digital content distribution strategies.

Focus Areas

• Copyright licensing and content distribution agreements
• Trademark portfolio management and brand protection
• Talent and artist agreements under Japanese entertainment law
• Digital content, streaming, and platform licensing
• Anti-piracy strategy and enforcement

• Draft, review, and negotiate IP licensing and content distribution agreements
• Advise on copyright ownership, licensing, and clearance issues
• Support trademark portfolio management and enforcement actions
• Provide legal guidance on talent agreements and production contracts
• Advise on digital content strategies including streaming and platform licensing
• Coordinate with external counsel on IP litigation and anti-piracy enforcement
• Monitor legal developments in digital copyright and entertainment regulation

• Registered bengoshi (弁護士) with the JFBA or qualified legal professional with equivalent experience
• 4-7 years of experience in IP, entertainment, or media law
• Strong knowledge of the Copyright Act (著作権法), Trademark Act (商標法), and related legislation
• Experience with content licensing, distribution, or publishing agreements
• Business-level English for international licensing negotiations
• Passion for entertainment, gaming, music, or anime industries
• In-house experience at a media or technology company preferred