In 2002, Okuno signed with Prefectural Leagues club Thespa Kusatsu and became a playing manager. The club was promoted to Regional Leagues in 2003 and Japan Football League in 2004. However he retired from playing career and left the club end of 2003 season. In 2004, he returned to his old club Kashima Antlers and became a coach. The club won the champions for 3 years in a row (2007–2009). In 2012, he moved to J2 League club Montedio Yamagata and became a manager. He managed the club until 2013.