Jujutsu Kaisen: What Are Assistant Managers?

Summary

Assistant Managers oversee mission operations, handling transportation, communications, and reconnaissance.
Assistant Managers do not need cursed techniques but some can use cursed energy and shikigami.
Assistant Managers train alongside sorcerers, with some switching their major to management.

As a seasoned fan of Jujutsu Kaisen, I can’t help but appreciate the intricate world-building that goes into this anime. One of my favorite aspects is the role of the Assistant Managers. Having spent countless hours watching the series, I feel like I’ve grown alongside these characters, and their importance to the jujutsu world cannot be overstated.

In the realm of Jujutsu Kaisen, sorcerers harness otherworldly powers, such as wielding straw dolls to counter curses and summoning spirits at will. However, even with these extraordinary abilities, the power of the jujutsu world could be squandered without proper organization. Thankfully, Assistant Managers are on hand to manage mission operations, ensuring that Jujutsu Kaisen’s sorcerers remain well-prepared.

Assistant Managers carry out various duties to eliminate curses and protect sorcerers. Their roles fluctuate between driving, negotiating, and investigating. Given the crucial nature of this role, potential managers learn alongside sorcerers at Jujutsu High. Without their help, the jujutsu world could easily crumble.

Assistant Managers Oversee Jujutsu Mission Operations

These Operations Include Transportation, Communications, and Reconnaissance

As an assistant manager, you need to master many different abilities. While a jujutsu sorcerer focuses on perfecting their magic, an assistant manager needs to learn not just the technical aspects of their role, but also a variety of job-related skills.

Chauffeur: Assistant managers escort sorcerers to and from mission points.
- Example: Akari drives Yuji, Nobara, and Megumi to several investigation points while uncovering the mystery behind Yasohachi Bridge (season 1, episode 22, “The Origin of Blind Obedience”).
Recon Agent: Assistant managers gather vital information to convey to sorcerers before each mission.
- Example: Ijichi briefs Yuji, Nobara, and Megumi about the cursed womb at Eishu Detention Center and the five detainees trapped inside Block 2 (season 1, episode 4, “Curse Womb Must Die”).
Liaison: Assistant managers are a communication link between sorcerers on the field and Jujutsu High. They call for backup when necessary and help settle disputes between students and staff.
- Example: According to Akutami in Jujutsu Kaisen: The Official Character Guide, “Everyone comes crying to Ijichi if Gojo gives them problems.” (chapter 1, page 55)

Assistant Managers Can Use Cursed Energy

However, Cursed Techniques Are Not Required

Typically, Assistant Managers do not employ the use of cursed methods, but they are still capable of detecting cursed auras. It’s also important to note that all assistant managers should be proficient in fundamental combat techniques. For example, Akari Nitta is unable to wield cursed energy, but she can perceive cursed entities. Akari serves as a sort of “window” (a term for individuals who can see curses).

Instead, Kiyotaka Ijichi possesses the ability to manipulate cursed energy. He has two protective methods designed to aid sorcerers. The first is a basic shielding method which employs talismans to mask malevolent spells. Ijichi’s second technique involves creating a veil barrier, effectively hiding malicious spirits from public view.

One less-than-desirable tactic sometimes employed by assistant managers might be referred to as Shikigami, as mentioned in chapter 2 of the book “Jujutsu Kaisen: The Official Character Guide” on page 131.

Assistant Managers Train Alongside Jujutsu Sorcerers

Sorcerers May Switch Their Major to Management

How is it that an assistant manager learns? Is it the decision of managers themselves to select their area of expertise, or is it the faculty at Jujutsu High who make this choice for them? What exactly does the curriculum for an assistant management position entail? Let’s delve a bit deeper.

At Japan’s Prefectural Jujutsu High Schools, assistant managers learn alongside those with magical abilities, similar to sorcerers. Although the curriculum for managerial studies isn’t extensively documented, it’s possible to guess at some of the classes an aspiring manager might attend. A mandatory subject shared by both sorcerers and managers is curse study. Additionally, if a manager possesses a cursed technique, they would refine it much like any sorcerer would. Lastly, one can presume that administrative training is specifically tailored for managers (as shown by Ijichi’s proficiency in Excel, as mentioned by Akutami).

Beyond their academic studies, prospective managers also embark on practical assignments to aid students of sorcery. Unlike sorcerers, however, there isn’t a grading system for managers. Yet, just as with any profession, the managers who demonstrate exceptional skills are entrusted with critical tasks and rise to leadership roles within the management teams at Jujutsu High. This is why Ijichi is constantly sought after.

As an observer, I note that there are two routes for enrolling in the management program at Jujutsu High. Fresh students may choose to select management as their field of study upon application (Akari opted for this route). Conversely, a student specializing in sorcery can decide to switch majors and pursue management instead, altering their academic trajectory. For instance, Ijichi initially embarked on a sorcery-focused education, but found that the demands of the profession were too stressful for his practical and high-strung nature.

2024-12-21 00:35