External Communications Manager

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: External Communications Manager 🔹 Company: Bayer 🔹 Location: Tokyo, Tōkyō, Japan 🔹 Job Type: Full-Time 🔹 Category: Communications & PR 🔹 Date Posted: April 9, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: 1. Developing and implementing communications activities for Bayer in Japan (BiJ) and Pharmaceuticals, focusing on PR activities, media outreach, collaborative initiatives with third parties, and industrial organization activities. 2. Maximizing company media exposure based on business strategy to contribute to business success while improving corporate reputation. 3. Supporting Head of External Communications to steer the organization's professional expertise. 4. Collaborating with global and regional internal stakeholders to showcase Japan presence globally. 5. Working closely with Communications team members and supporting them with cutting-edge communications methods. 6. Constructively discussing, negotiating with internal stakeholders to foster positive reputation both internally and externally. 7. Leading Pharmaceutical communications initiatives by collaborating and supporting with Communications team members while developing trustful relationships with internal business stakeholders. 8. Deepening understanding of the industry's regulation and code by closely collaborating with PH internal business stakeholders. 9. Developing and managing communications materials to penetrate strategic key messages effectively and consistently. 10. Supporting issue/crisis communications appropriately by closely working with the Head and other communications team members to secure company reputation. ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong strategic mindset and excellent communication skills to navigate complex stakeholder relationships and manage multiple projects simultaneously. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Develop and implement communications activities for Bayer in Japan (BiJ) and Pharmaceuticals, focusing on PR activities, media outreach, collaborative initiatives with third parties, and industrial organization activities. ✅ Maximize company media exposure based on business strategy to contribute to business success while improving corporate reputation. ✅ Support Head of External Communications to steer the organization's professional expertise. ✅ Collaborate with global and regional internal stakeholders to showcase Japan presence globally. ✅ Work closely with Communications team members and support them with showcasing cutting-edge communications methods. ✅ Constructively discuss, negotiate with internal stakeholders to foster positive reputation both internally and externally. ✅ Lead Pharmaceutical communications initiatives by collaborating and supporting with Communications team members while developing trustful relationships with internal business stakeholders. ✅ Deepen understanding of the industry's regulation and code by closely collaborating with PH internal business stakeholders. ✅ Develop and manage communications materials to penetrate strategic key messages effectively and consistently. ✅ Support issue/crisis communications appropriately by closely working with the Head and other communications team members to secure company reputation. ASSUMPTION: The role involves a high degree of autonomy and requires strong project management skills to balance multiple priorities and meet tight deadlines. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - University degree or above Experience: - Minimum of 5-8 years of working in Communications, Public Relations, or equivalent professional media relations experience (preferable) - Proven track record of driving outcomes that support the business - Strong in digital acumen: website, social media, and utilizing AI tools is essential for this role - Excellent written and verbal communication skills in both Japanese (TOEIC 800 and above) and English Required Skills: - Strong leadership skills - Creative, flexible, and strategic mindset - Logical and convincing - Business and customer orientation Preferred Skills: - Work experience in the life-science industry - Strong interpersonal skills and commitment to working in a team environment - Strong relationship-building skills with journalists, other stakeholders, and internal partners - Solid understanding of industry and company background ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a proven track record in communications, public relations, or a related field, along with strong digital skills and language proficiency, will be most successful in this role. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: Competitive salary package consisting of an annual basic salary and Short-Term Incentive (STI) bonus and top performance award, tailored to your role at Bayer. Benefits: - Various special paid day-offs on top of given annual paid vacation days - Flexible working hours and home-office arrangements depending on your job nature in alignment with your manager - Learning and development opportunities through training programs, regular feedback, and project participations - Diversity and inclusion programs, providing an inclusive and fair work environment for all employees - Corporate benefit programs, including DC pension plan, health and medical support, life insurance, and more ASSUMPTION: The salary range and benefits are competitive and tailored to the role's requirements and the candidate's experience level. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Chemical Manufacturing, focusing on Pharmaceuticals, Consumer Health, Crop Science, and Life Sciences. Company Size: 10,001+ employees (Global) Founded: 1863, in Barmen, Germany Company Description: - Bayer is a global enterprise with core competencies in the life science fields of healthcare and nutrition. - We design our products and services to serve the most essential human needs of health and nutrition. - At the same time, we strive to address some of the world’s biggest challenges presented by a growing and aging global population. - Through the power of science, we’re pioneering new possibilities that advance life for all of us. - We’re committed to driving sustainable development and generating a positive impact with our businesses. Company Specialties: - Pharmaceuticals - Consumer Health - Crop Science - Life Sciences - Research - Innovation - Sustainability - Health Care - Digital Farming - Food Security - Science For Better, and Innovation Company Website: www.bayer.com ASSUMPTION: Bayer's global presence and diverse business segments offer numerous opportunities for career growth and development. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Mid-level to senior, depending on the candidate's experience and skills. Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Head of External Communications and may oversee junior communications team members. Work Arrangement: Hybrid work arrangement, with a combination of on-site and remote work, depending on the candidate's preferences and the team's needs. Growth Opportunities: - Potential to lead and manage a team of communications professionals - Opportunities to work on high-impact projects and collaborate with senior leadership - Possibility to transition into a more senior role or take on additional responsibilities as the company grows ASSUMPTION: This role offers a clear path for career progression and professional development within Bayer's communications department. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Hybrid, with a combination of on-site and remote work options. Office Location(s): Tokyo, Tōkyō, Japan Geographic Context: - Tokyo is the capital and largest city of Japan, with a population of approximately 13.9 million people. - It is a major international finance center and hosts the headquarters of several of the world's largest investment banks and insurance companies. - Tokyo is known for its bustling neighborhoods, rich culture, and diverse culinary scene. Work Schedule: Standard Japanese business hours, with some flexibility for remote work. ASSUMPTION: Tokyo offers a dynamic and multicultural work environment, with ample opportunities for personal and professional growth. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application submission 2. Phone or video screening 3. In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager 4. Final interview with senior leadership 5. Background check and offer Key Assessment Areas: - Communication skills, both written and verbal - Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities - Cultural fit and alignment with Bayer's values - Digital acumen and proficiency with relevant tools - Industry-specific knowledge and understanding of Bayer's business Application Tips: 1. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. 2. Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your communication skills, leadership abilities, and problem-solving strategies. 3. Research Bayer's business, industry, and competitors to demonstrate your understanding of the company's position in the market. 4. Practice your presentation skills, as you may be asked to deliver a short presentation on a relevant topic during the interview process. ASSUMPTION: The interview process is designed to assess your skills, experience, and cultural fit for the role, as well as your ability to thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced work environment. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator) - Social media platforms (Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook) - Content management systems (CMS) and website platforms (WordPress, Drupal) - Project management tools (Asana, Trello, JIRA) - AI tools for content creation and analysis (ChatGPT, Frase AI, Copy.ai) ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in these tools and technologies is essential for success in this role, as they are used daily to create, manage, and distribute communications content. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Integrity and respect for people - Excellence and innovation - Sustainability and responsibility - Courage and accountability Work Style: - Collaborative and team-oriented - Results-driven and focused on delivering high-quality work - Adaptable and open to feedback and continuous learning - Committed to Bayer's mission and values Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do you align with Bayer's value of 'Integrity and respect for people' in your daily work? 2. Describe a time when you demonstrated 'Excellence and innovation' in a previous role. 3. How do you incorporate 'Sustainability and responsibility' into your work and personal life? 4. Can you provide an example of when you demonstrated 'Courage and accountability' in a challenging situation? ASSUMPTION: Candidates who can articulate their alignment with Bayer's values and provide concrete examples of their work style will be strong contenders for this role. ⚠️ Potential Challenges 1. Balancing multiple projects and priorities with tight deadlines 2. Navigating complex stakeholder relationships and managing expectations 3. Keeping up with industry trends and regulatory changes in the pharmaceutical industry 4. Adapting to a dynamic work environment with a hybrid work arrangement ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will be proactive, organized, and able to thrive in a fast-paced and ever-changing work environment. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. This role differs from related positions in its focus on external communications for a multinational pharmaceutical company, requiring strong language skills and cultural sensitivity. 2. Industry-specific context: The pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated and requires a deep understanding of industry trends, regulations, and market dynamics. 3. Career path comparison: This role offers a clear path for career progression within Bayer's communications department, with opportunities to lead teams and take on more senior responsibilities. ASSUMPTION: Candidates with relevant industry experience and strong communication skills will find this role appealing and well-suited to their career goals. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Developing and executing a successful media outreach campaign to announce a new pharmaceutical product launch in Japan. 2. Collaborating with global stakeholders to create a unified communications strategy for a company-wide initiative, ensuring consistency across multiple regions and languages. 3. Managing a crisis communication situation, such as a product recall or negative media coverage, and developing effective strategies to mitigate reputational damage. ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the diverse and challenging nature of the role, requiring strong communication skills, strategic thinking, and adaptability. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30-60-90 days? 2. How does this role fit into the overall communications strategy for Bayer in Japan? 3. What are the most significant challenges facing the communications department, and how can this role address them? 4. How does Bayer support the professional development and growth of its employees? 5. What is the company's approach to work-life balance, and how is it implemented in this role? ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to understanding the company's culture and expectations. 📐 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through this link: https://talent.bayer.com/careers/job/562949965743431-external-communications-manager-tokyo-tokyo-japan 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role. 3. Prepare for phone or video screening and in-person or virtual interviews with the hiring manager and senior leadership. 4. Practice your presentation skills, as you may be asked to deliver a short presentation on a relevant topic during the interview process. 5. Follow up with the recruiter after each interview step to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications. ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.