Marketing Director

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Marketing Director

🔹 Company: Abbott

🔹 Location: Tokyo, Tōkyō, Japan

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time

🔹 Category: Marketing

🔹 Date Posted: 2025-07-16

🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Leading the marketing strategy and execution for Abbott Diabetes Care's continuous glucose monitoring category in Japan.
• Managing a cross-functional marketing team and collaborating with sales and other departments to enhance customer value propositions.
• Driving marketing strategic and tactical planning, execution, and implementation across all HCP, Digital, and Consumer marketing channels in Japan.
• Developing strategic brand planning, market research synthesis, and marketing analytics.
• Designing and delivering sales training programs to enhance the skills, knowledge, and performance of the sales organization.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of strategic thinking, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration to drive marketing success and achieve business objectives in the competitive diabetes care market.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Lead the Japan marketing strategy, positioning, content, and activation for relevant audiences in the healthcare professional and consumer sectors supporting both reimbursed and cash pay opportunities.

✅ Drive marketing strategic and tactical planning, execution, and implementation across all HCP, Digital, and Consumer marketing channels in Japan.

✅ Develop strategic brand planning, market research synthesis, and marketing analytics.

✅ Design clinical and consumer messaging and implement across the path with a focus on new patient acquisition, utilization, and retention.

✅ Partner with other functions to deliver improvements in the customer value proposition such as Sales, Partnerships, and Medical.

✅ Lead development of marketing insights/slides for annual planning, business reviews, and LBE.

✅ Marketing execution with flair and innovation: ensure that FreeStyle Libre brand achieves high share of voice and that there is a strong link between sales results and branding efforts.

✅ Measure & assess: ensure marketing campaigns/executions are data-driven and based on insights. Ensure KPI dashboards are set to track performance of key marketing campaigns with meaningful business metrics.

✅ Responsible for Sales Training, designing, delivering, and optimizing training programs that enhance the skills, knowledge, and performance of the sales organization.

✅ As a member of the Leadership Team, plan and drive achievements of company vision and objectives as well as divisional mission and strategies.

✅ Motivate and support the skill, competency, and career development for the marketing team.

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high degree of responsibility and requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration to drive marketing success and achieve business objectives.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor of Arts/Science in business or science/engineering required; MBA preferred.

Experience: Ten or more years’ experience preferably in the pharmaceutical and/or medical device industry in commercial roles; experience in sales preferred.

Required Skills:

• Proven ability to identify/define business questions and issues, synthesize information from multiple sources, conduct analysis, formulate actionable recommendations, and confidently recommend a point-of-view to senior management.
• Innovative and creative – demonstrated ability to leverage consumer insights to identify and evaluate creative ideas, focusing on those that will create sustainable competitive advantage.
• Exceptional oral and written communication skills both in Japanese and English, with the ability to build strong, collaborative working relationships with all levels of management, the sales force, and customers with a high-level of self-awareness.
• Strong project management skills, with proven ability to manage multiple tasks concurrently under aggressive timelines in a dynamic environment while maintaining strong attention to detail and quick recall.
• Excellent knowledge of ROI and P&L.
• Advanced knowledge of and experience using Microsoft PowerPoint and Excel.
• Interpersonal and leadership skills (setting expectations, coaching, feedback, etc.).

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the diabetes care industry.
• Fluency in additional languages, particularly Chinese or Korean.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with a strong background in strategic marketing, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration will be best suited for this role. Experience in the pharmaceutical or medical device industry is highly preferred.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this position is not provided. However, based on industry standards for a Marketing Director role with 10+ years of experience in the pharmaceutical or medical device industry in Japan, the estimated salary range is ¥25,000,000 - ¥35,000,000 per year.

Benefits:

• Competitive benefits package, including health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Retirement savings plan with company match.
• Employee stock purchase plan.
• Generous time-off policies, including vacation, sick leave, and holidays.
• Tuition reimbursement and professional development opportunities.

Working Hours: Standard full-time work hours are typically 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with flexibility for occasional overtime as needed.

ASSUMPTION: The provided salary range is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience, skills, and negotiation. Abbott offers a competitive benefits package to attract and retain top talent.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Abbott operates in the healthcare industry, with a focus on nutrition, diagnostics, medical devices, and branded generic pharmaceuticals. The company serves customers in more than 160 countries worldwide.

Company Size: Abbott is a large organization with over 10,000 employees globally. This size offers opportunities for career growth and development within the company.

Founded: Abbott was founded in 1888 and has a rich history of innovation and growth in the healthcare industry.

Company Description:

• Abbott is a global healthcare leader that helps people live more fully at all stages of life.
• The company's portfolio of life-changing technologies spans the spectrum of healthcare, with leading businesses and products in diagnostics, medical devices, nutritional, and branded generic medicines.
• Abbott is committed to improving lives through its innovative products and services, as well as its dedication to sustainability and social responsibility.

Company Specialties:

• Nutrition
• Diagnostics
• Medical Devices
• Branded Generic Pharmaceuticals

Company Website: https://www.abbott.com/

ASSUMPTION: Abbott's large size and global presence offer opportunities for career growth and development within the company. The company's focus on innovation and improving lives makes it an attractive employer for individuals passionate about healthcare.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is a senior-level position, requiring a high degree of strategic thinking, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.

Reporting Structure: The Marketing Director reports directly to the General Manager of Abbott Diabetes Care Japan and works closely with the Japan and Area Senior Management.

Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with the primary office location in Tokyo, Japan. Occasional travel may be required for business purposes.

Growth Opportunities:

• As a member of the Leadership Team, there may be opportunities for career progression within Abbott's Japan division or globally.
• Abbott offers professional development opportunities, including tuition reimbursement and training programs, to support employees' career growth.
• Working in a large, global organization like Abbott provides exposure to diverse teams and projects, fostering personal and professional development.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth opportunities for the right candidate, both within Abbott's Japan division and globally. Abbott's commitment to professional development and career growth makes it an attractive employer for ambitious individuals.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Abbott's Tokyo office is a modern, collaborative workspace designed to foster innovation and productivity.

Office Location(s): Abbott's primary office location in Japan is in Tokyo, with the specific address listed as "Japan > Tokyo : Mita South Tower".

Geographic Context:

• Tokyo is the capital city of Japan and the most populous metropolitan area in the world, with a diverse and vibrant culture.
• The Mita area, where Abbott's office is located, is a bustling commercial district with easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
• Tokyo offers a high quality of life, with excellent education, healthcare, and recreational opportunities.

Work Schedule: Standard full-time work hours are typically 8:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday, with flexibility for occasional overtime as needed. Abbott offers a flexible work arrangement policy, allowing employees to work from home or remotely as needed.

ASSUMPTION: Abbott's Tokyo office provides a modern, collaborative work environment that fosters innovation and productivity. The office's location in the bustling Mita district offers easy access to public transportation, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Tokyo's high quality of life and diverse culture make it an attractive location for professionals.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission through the Abbott careers website.
• Phone or video screen with the Talent Acquisition team to discuss the role and assess cultural fit.
• In-depth interviews with the hiring manager and other members of the Leadership Team to evaluate skills, experience, and strategic thinking.
• Final interview with the General Manager of Abbott Diabetes Care Japan to discuss the role's fit with the company's vision and objectives.

Key Assessment Areas:

• Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Leadership and team management capabilities.
• Cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management.
• Communication and presentation skills in both Japanese and English.
• Industry knowledge and understanding of the diabetes care market.

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements in strategic marketing, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Research Abbott's mission, values, and culture to demonstrate your understanding of the company and your fit with its organization.

ATS Keywords: Marketing strategy, market research, brand planning, digital marketing, sales training, project management, analytical skills, communication skills, leadership skills, customer relationship management, data-driven decision making, creative thinking, team development, ROI analysis, P&L management, Microsoft PowerPoint

ASSUMPTION: Abbott's interview process is designed to assess candidates' strategic thinking, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration skills. Candidates who demonstrate a strong fit with Abbott's mission, values, and culture will be best positioned for success in the interview process.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (PowerPoint, Excel, Word)
• CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Marketing automation tools (e.g., Marketo, HubSpot)
• Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)

ASSUMPTION: Abbott uses a range of tools and technologies to support its marketing efforts, including Microsoft Office Suite, CRM software, marketing automation tools, and data visualization tools. Candidates with experience using these tools will be well-positioned for success in this role.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Innovation: Abbott is committed to driving innovation in healthcare to improve lives around the world.
• Caring: Abbott prioritizes the well-being of its employees, customers, and communities, demonstrating a deep commitment to caring for others.
• Integrity: Abbott upholds the highest ethical standards in all aspects of its business, fostering a culture of trust and accountability.

Work Style:

• Collaborative: Abbott fosters a collaborative work environment, encouraging cross-functional teamwork and knowledge sharing.
• Agile: Abbott values adaptability and flexibility, enabling it to respond quickly to changing market conditions and customer needs.
• Data-driven: Abbott makes data-driven decisions to inform its strategies and improve its products and services.

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you thrive in a collaborative, agile work environment that prioritizes data-driven decision making?
• Are you comfortable working with cross-functional teams and stakeholders to drive marketing success?
• Do you share Abbott's commitment to innovation, caring, and integrity in all aspects of your work?

ASSUMPTION: Abbott's culture values innovation, caring, integrity, collaboration, agility, and data-driven decision making. Candidates who align with these values and demonstrate a strong fit with Abbott's work style will be well-suited for this role.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• The competitive nature of the diabetes care market may present challenges in driving marketing success and achieving business objectives.
• Working in a large, global organization like Abbott may require navigating complex internal dynamics and building relationships with diverse stakeholders.
• The on-site work arrangement may present challenges for candidates who prefer a remote or hybrid work arrangement.
• Tokyo's high cost of living may present financial challenges for candidates relocating to the city.

ASSUMPTION: While Abbott offers significant opportunities for career growth and development, candidates should be aware of the potential challenges associated with working in a competitive market, navigating complex internal dynamics, and adapting to an on-site work arrangement in a high-cost-of-living city like Tokyo.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other marketing director roles in the pharmaceutical or medical device industry, this role may offer a broader scope of responsibilities, including sales training and cross-functional team management.
• Abbott's large size and global presence may provide more significant resources and opportunities for career growth compared to smaller organizations.
• Candidates with experience in the diabetes care industry may find this role particularly appealing, as it offers the opportunity to drive marketing success in a specialized and competitive market.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should consider the unique aspects of this role, such as its broader scope of responsibilities, Abbott's large size and global presence, and the opportunity to work in the specialized diabetes care market. These factors may set this role apart from similar marketing director roles in the pharmaceutical or medical device industry.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive marketing strategy for Abbott Diabetes Care's continuous glucose monitoring category in Japan, driving new patient acquisition, utilization, and retention.
• Conducting market research and synthesizing insights to inform strategic brand planning and marketing analytics for the FreeStyle Libre brand in Japan.
• Designing and delivering sales training programs to enhance the skills, knowledge, and performance of Abbott Diabetes Care's sales organization in Japan.

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, cross-functional, and collaborative nature of the Marketing Director role at Abbott. Candidates with experience in these areas will be well-positioned for success in this role.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the current marketing strategy for Abbott Diabetes Care's continuous glucose monitoring category in Japan, and how this role will contribute to its evolution?
• How does the Marketing Director role collaborate with other functions, such as Sales, Partnerships, and Medical, to deliver improvements in the customer value proposition?
• What are the key priorities for the Marketing Director role in the first 90 days, and how will success be measured in this timeframe?
• How does Abbott support the professional development and career growth of its marketing team members?
• What is Abbott's approach to work-life balance, and how does the company support employees in maintaining a healthy work-life equilibrium?

ASSUMPTION: These key questions are designed to help candidates better understand the role's responsibilities, priorities, and the company's approach to professional development and work-life balance. Asking thoughtful questions demonstrates a candidate's interest in and preparation for the role.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through the Abbott Careers website.
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience, skills, and achievements in strategic marketing, leadership, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, leadership style, and ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Research Abbott's mission, values, and culture to demonstrate your understanding of the company and your fit with its organization.
• Follow up with the Talent Acquisition team one week after submitting your application to inquire about the status of your application and express your continued interest in the role.

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