Senior Manager, Corporate Communications

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Senior Manager, Corporate Communications

🔹 Company: Weber Shandwick

🔹 Location: Tokyo, Japan

🔹 Job Type: On-site

🔹 Category: Public Relations and Communications Services

🔹 Date Posted: April 14, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years

🔹 Remote Status: No

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Developing and executing integrated PR and corporate communications strategies for leading Japanese and international brands
• Managing multiple public relations projects across various clients, from concept to completion
• Establishing and managing relationships with media, generating new ideas, and tactical suggestions aligned with strategic goals
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure deliverables meet strategic and quality standards

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of bilingual fluency in Japanese and English, both spoken and written, to effectively communicate with clients and media.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Develop high-quality proposals, corporate profiles, client briefings, and other materials in both Japanese and English

✅ Draft and localize media relations materials, generate outreach strategies, pitch efforts, and respond to media inquiries

✅ Serve as a key team member managing multiple public relations projects across various clients, from concept to completion

✅ Contribute to the development of tactical plans and cross-community implementations

✅ Successfully meet or exceed client expectations by ensuring adherence to timelines, budgets, and quality standards

✅ Manage campaigns and cross-functional teams, ensuring deliverables meet strategic and quality standards

✅ Perform other administrative tasks as required for account and team efficiency

ASSUMPTION: This role involves working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with quick response times and the ability to multitask effectively.

🎯 Required Qualifications

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

Experience: At least 5 years of business experience, preferably within an agency/consulting/service-oriented company

Required Skills:

• Bilingual fluency in Japanese and English, both spoken and written
• Strong project management skills
• Excellent business acumen
• Able to work independently in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Creative thinker and strong team player with a collaborative mindset

Preferred Skills:

• Experience working with global brands and high-profile clients
• Proven track record in developing and executing successful PR campaigns

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in the corporate communications field and a strong understanding of the Japanese market will be at an advantage.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Senior Manager role in Tokyo, the estimated salary range is ¥8,000,000 - ¥12,000,000 per year. This is an estimate and the actual salary may vary based on experience and performance.

Benefits:

• Career development opportunities in a globally recognized agency
• Competitive salary and benefits package

Working Hours: Full-time, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility based on project demands

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

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Weber Shandwick is a global public relations and communications firm that specializes in corporate communications, media relations, and strategic consulting.

Company Size: Weber Shandwick is a mid-sized company with 121 employees, providing a collaborative and creative environment for employees.

Founded: Weber Shandwick was founded in 1989 and has since grown into a globally recognized agency.

Company Description:

• Weber Shandwick provides integrated communications solutions to help clients build their brands and reputations
• The company offers a range of services, including corporate communications, media relations, crisis communications, and digital marketing
• Weber Shandwick is committed to building a culture where all employees are seen as equal, respected, and heard

Company Specialties:

• Corporate Communications
• Media Relations
• Crisis Communications
• Digital Marketing

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

ASSUMPTION: Weber Shandwick's focus on diversity, inclusion, and employee development makes it an attractive employer for candidates seeking a supportive and engaging work environment.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is a senior management position, requiring a high level of experience and expertise in corporate communications.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Manager, Corporate Communications will report directly to the Managing Director of Weber Shandwick's Tokyo office and will oversee a team of account executives and managers.

Work Arrangement: This is an on-site position, requiring the candidate to work from Weber Shandwick's Tokyo office. However, there may be opportunities for flexible work arrangements based on project demands.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to a Director or Vice President role within the corporate communications practice
• Expanding responsibilities to include additional client accounts or practice areas
• Opportunities to work on global client accounts, providing international exposure and experience

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have the opportunity to grow within the organization, taking on increased responsibilities and advancing their careers in the corporate communications field.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Weber Shandwick's Tokyo office is a modern, collaborative workspace that fosters creativity and innovation.

Office Location(s): Tokyo, Japan

Geographic Context:

• Tokyo is a major global city with a vibrant business environment and a strong focus on innovation and technology
• The city offers a high quality of life, with excellent dining, cultural, and entertainment options
• Tokyo is well-connected by public transportation, making it easy for employees to commute to the office

Work Schedule: The work schedule is typically Monday to Friday, with some flexibility based on project demands and client needs.

ASSUMPTION: Candidates who are comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and enjoy the energy and excitement of a major global city will thrive in this role.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Initial phone or video screen to assess language skills and cultural fit
• In-depth interview with the Managing Director and other senior team members to discuss the role, responsibilities, and career growth opportunities
• Case study or presentation to demonstrate strategic thinking and communication skills
• Final interview with the Global President or another senior leader to discuss the company's global strategy and the candidate's fit within the organization

Key Assessment Areas:

• Language skills in Japanese and English
• Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities
• Cultural awareness and understanding of the Japanese market
• Communication and presentation skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
• Demonstrate your understanding of Weber Shandwick's company culture and values in your application materials
• Prepare for the interview by researching the company, its clients, and recent industry trends

ATS Keywords: Bilingual, Corporate Communications, Media Relations, Strategic Planning, Project Management, Client Leadership, Team Management, Weber Shandwick

ASSUMPTION: Weber Shandwick's interview process is designed to assess the candidate's language skills, strategic thinking, and cultural fit, ensuring a strong match for the role and the organization.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Cision (media database and distribution platform)
• Meltwater (media monitoring and analytics tool)
• Social media platforms (Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook)

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be comfortable using industry-standard tools and platforms for communication, media monitoring, and analytics.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Integrity
• Creativity
• Collaboration
• Excellence

Work Style:

• Fast-paced and dynamic
• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Focused on delivering high-quality results for clients

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment?
• Are you comfortable working in a collaborative, team-oriented setting?
• Do you have a strong commitment to delivering high-quality results for clients?

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong fit with Weber Shandwick's company values and work style, ensuring a positive and productive working relationship.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple client accounts and projects simultaneously, requiring strong organizational skills and time management
• Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment with quick response times and tight deadlines
• Navigating the unique cultural landscape of the Japanese market, requiring strong cultural awareness and sensitivity
• Adapting to Weber Shandwick's global culture and working with international teams

ASSUMPTION: Candidates who are proactive, organized, and adaptable will be well-equipped to overcome these challenges and succeed in the role.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• This role is similar to other senior management positions in corporate communications, but may offer more focus on media relations and strategic planning
• Compared to other agencies, Weber Shandwick may offer a more collaborative and creative work environment, with a stronger emphasis on employee development and growth
• Career progression in this role may involve expanding responsibilities to include additional client accounts or practice areas, rather than moving into a more specialized or technical role

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should research similar roles and companies to gain a better understanding of the market and their own career goals.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a comprehensive media relations strategy for a global technology client entering the Japanese market
• Managing a team to create and implement a corporate communications campaign for a major Japanese corporation undergoing a significant organizational change
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to create and execute a digital marketing campaign for a consumer goods client looking to expand its presence in the Japanese market

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to discuss their experience with similar projects and how they have contributed to their success.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
• How does Weber Shandwick support the professional development and growth of its employees?
• What are the most challenging aspects of working with Japanese clients, and how does Weber Shandwick address them?
• How does Weber Shandwick collaborate with its global offices to provide consistent and high-quality services to its clients?
• What opportunities are there for growth and advancement within the corporate communications practice at Weber Shandwick?

ASSUMPTION: Candidates should prepare thoughtful and insightful questions to demonstrate their interest in the role and the organization.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
• Prepare for the interview by researching the company, its clients, and recent industry trends
• Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of submitting your application to 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.