Communications Manager, Pokémon GO

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Communications Manager, Pokémon GO

🔹 Company: Niantic

🔹 Location: Tokyo, Japan

🔹 Job Type: Hybrid (3 days in-office)

🔹 Category: Communications & PR

🔹 Date Posted: April 16, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site (3 days a week)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading communication strategy for Pokémon GO in Japan and supporting APAC
• Cultivating relationships with media and influencers
• Developing press materials and engaging in industry trends
• Collaborating cross-functionally with product and marketing teams

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of the Japanese media landscape and cultural nuances to effectively communicate Pokémon GO's story and updates.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Lead the communication strategy for Pokémon GO in Japan and support communications for the game in APAC

✅ Cultivate and strengthen relationships with Japanese media outlets and content creators

✅ Develop compelling messaging and efficiently handle press inquiries

✅ Plan and lead press events to boost Pokémon GO's visibility and understanding among key media and influencers

✅ Collaborate with cross-functional teams to create impactful media materials

✅ Staff live events and support press, influencers, executives, and partners

✅ Immerse yourself in Pokémon GO and the broader mobile games industry, providing insights and process recommendations

ASSUMPTION: This role may require working flexible hours to accommodate press inquiries and event schedules, especially during game updates or launches.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, PR, Journalism, or a related field

Experience: 6+ years of proven track record implementing consumer-facing PR and/or influencer campaigns in the video game, entertainment, or tech sectors

Required Skills:

• Excellent writing and organizational skills
• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced hybrid environment and handle stress appropriately
• Strong problem-solving skills and adaptability
• Fluency in English and Japanese
• Passion for video games, especially real-world mobile games and Pokémon GO

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with Pokémon IP or similar high-profile brands
• Familiarity with AR technology and its applications

ASSUMPTION: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in Japanese is likely required for this role due to its focus on the Japanese market.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Communications Manager role in Tokyo with 6-10 years of experience, the estimated salary range is ¥7,000,000 - ¥10,000,000 per year (approximately $55,000 - $78,000 USD).

Benefits:

• Health, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k) matching
• Generous time off and company holidays
• Employee stock options
• Professional development opportunities

Working Hours: Full-time, with required in-office attendance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and skills.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Niantic is a software development company specializing in augmented reality (AR) technology, with a focus on mobile games and location-based services.

Company Size: Niantic has 501-1,000 employees, providing a mid-sized company environment with ample opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Founded: Niantic was founded in 2011 and has since grown to become a leader in AR technology, with offices around the world.

Company Description:

• Niantic inspires people to explore the world, together, using emerging AR technology to enrich our experiences in the physical world.
• The company is known for creating hit games like Pokémon GO, Pikmin Bloom, and Peridot, as well as the Lightship platform, which powers AR experiences for developers.
• Niantic values intellectual curiosity, passion for problem-solving, and fostering a sense of community among its employees.

Company Specialties:

• Augmented reality
• Mobile games
• Location-based services
• Development platforms

Company Website: http://www.nianticlabs.com

ASSUMPTION: Niantic's focus on AR technology and mobile games makes it an exciting and innovative place to work, with opportunities to grow both personally and professionally.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the mid-career level, requiring 6+ years of experience in communications or a related field.

Reporting Structure: The Communications Manager will report directly to the Global Communications team and collaborate with various cross-functional teams, including product and marketing.

Work Arrangement: This role is hybrid, with required in-office attendance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

Growth Opportunities:

• Potential to grow within the Communications team or explore other opportunities within Niantic as the company expands its AR offerings.
• Chance to work on high-profile projects and collaborate with industry leaders.
• Opportunities to develop skills in AR technology and its applications.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work on a globally recognized brand and make a significant impact on its communication strategy in Japan and APAC.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Niantic's Tokyo office is a collaborative and innovative workspace, designed to foster creativity and teamwork.

Office Location(s): Tokyo, Japan

Geographic Context:

• Tokyo is a bustling metropolis with a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant gaming scene.
• The city offers numerous opportunities for networking and professional growth within the gaming industry.
• Tokyo is home to many influential media outlets and content creators, providing ample opportunities for collaboration and partnership.

Work Schedule: Full-time, with required in-office attendance on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and flexible hours to accommodate press inquiries and event schedules.

ASSUMPTION: Working in Tokyo offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the heart of the Japanese gaming industry and culture.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Phone or video screen with the Global Communications team
• In-depth interview with the Global Communications team and relevant stakeholders
• Final interview with the Global Communications Director

Key Assessment Areas:

• Communication skills and ability to craft compelling narratives
• Understanding of the Japanese media landscape and cultural nuances
• Problem-solving skills and adaptability in a fast-paced environment
• Passion for video games and AR technology

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience in consumer-facing PR and influencer campaigns, as well as your passion for video games and AR technology.
• Prepare examples of your writing and communication skills, demonstrating your ability to craft compelling narratives and handle reactive issues.
• Research Niantic, Pokémon GO, and the broader AR industry to showcase your understanding of the company and its mission.

ATS Keywords: Pokémon GO, Communications Manager, Japan, APAC, Media Relations, Influencer Relations, Press Engagement, AR Technology, Mobile Games

ASSUMPTION: Niantic's interview process is designed to assess candidates' communication skills, cultural fit, and passion for the company's mission and products.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Cision or similar media database platforms
• Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Sprout Social)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

ASSUMPTION: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in using relevant communication and project management tools is expected for this role.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Inspire exploration
• Foster social connections
• Bring joy to everyday life through AR

Work Style:

• Collaborative and cross-functional
• Fast-paced and adaptable
• Passionate about AR technology and its applications

Self-Assessment Questions:

• How do you approach storytelling opportunities with curiosity and a creative perspective?
• How have you handled reactive issues in previous roles, and what was the outcome?
• How do you stay organized and manage your time in a fast-paced environment?

ASSUMPTION: Niantic values candidates who are passionate, curious, and adaptable, with a strong work ethic and a desire to learn and grow within the company.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple stakeholders and balancing their priorities
• Adapting to a fast-paced and dynamic work environment
• Working flexible hours to accommodate press inquiries and event schedules
• Navigating the unique cultural landscape of the Japanese gaming industry

ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome by strong communication skills, adaptability, and a passion for the role and the company's mission.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• This role is unique in its focus on the Japanese market and APAC region for Pokémon GO, offering a rare opportunity to make a significant impact on the game's communication strategy in these areas.
• Compared to similar roles in the industry, this position offers a unique blend of communications, influencer relations, and industry engagement responsibilities.
• Career progression in this role could lead to opportunities in global communications or other leadership positions within Niantic.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider this role's unique focus on the Japanese market and APAC region when evaluating their career goals and aspirations.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a press event to launch a new Pokémon GO feature in Japan
• Crafting a compelling narrative around a Pokémon GO update and pitching it to key media outlets and influencers
• Managing a crisis communication situation related to a Pokémon GO event or in-game issue

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and challenges faced by the Communications Manager for Pokémon GO in Japan and APAC.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• How does this role fit into the broader communications strategy for Pokémon GO and Niantic?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
• How does Niantic support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What are the most rewarding and challenging aspects of working on the Pokémon GO communications team?
• How does Niantic foster a culture of collaboration and innovation within its communications department?

ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to provide insight into the role's responsibilities, the team's dynamics, and Niantic's company culture.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your experience in consumer-facing PR and influencer campaigns, as well as your passion for video games and AR technology.
• Prepare examples of your writing and communication skills, demonstrating your ability to craft compelling narratives and handle reactive issues.
• Research Niantic, Pokémon GO, and the broader AR industry to showcase your understanding of the company and its mission.
• Follow up with Niantic one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and reiterate your interest in the role.

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.