Vice President, Healthcare PR

📌 Core Information 🔹 Job Title: Vice President, Healthcare PR 🔹 Company: Weber Shandwick Tokyo 🔹 Location: Tokyo, Japan 🔹 Job Type: Full-time, Hybrid 🔹 Category: Public Relations & Communications 🔹 Date Posted: May 26, 2025 🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years 🔹 Remote Status: On-site (Hybrid) 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Leading strategic healthcare communications and PR programs for global and domestic clients - Serving as a trusted advisor and project lead, ensuring high-quality deliverables - Driving new business development and fostering cross-functional collaboration - Mentoring direct reports and junior team members to support growth and engagement ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, strong communication skills, and the ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders effectively. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Lead the strategic planning and execution of integrated healthcare communications and public relations programs ✅ Act as a trusted advisor and project lead for both global and domestic healthcare clients ✅ Translate complex scientific and regulatory information into clear, compelling narratives across product, brand, corporate, and spokesperson content ✅ Drive new business development, from leading pitch strategies to delivering persuasive presentations ✅ Foster cross-functional collaboration and mentor direct reports and junior team members to support growth and engagement ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high level of responsibility and requires strong leadership, communication, and project management skills. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: Bachelor's degree in Communications, Public Relations, Marketing, or a related field (Master's degree preferred) Experience: - Minimum 5 years of experience in healthcare communications, either in-house or at an agency, preferably within a multinational company - Strong understanding of Japan’s healthcare environment and regulatory framework - Proven ability to execute compliant, multi-channel communications Required Skills: - Excellent communication and project management skills - People management experience, including leading teams and projects with multiple stakeholders - Native-level proficiency in Japanese and business-level proficiency in English, both written and spoken - Strategic and analytical thinker with strong attention to detail, a growth mindset, and a collaborative approach - Genuine passion for using communications to improve healthcare outcomes Preferred Skills: - Experience working with global healthcare clients - Familiarity with digital marketing and social media platforms - Knowledge of healthcare regulatory processes and approvals ASSUMPTION: Given the role's focus on healthcare communications, candidates with relevant industry experience and a strong understanding of the Japanese healthcare environment will be most competitive. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: ¥12,000,000 - ¥15,000,000 per year (Estimated based on industry standards for a Vice President role in Tokyo) Benefits: - Flexible hybrid working style - Competitive compensation and benefits package - Opportunities to collaborate with global and domestic prestigious healthcare clients Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement ASSUMPTION: The salary range is estimated based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and skills. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Public Relations and Communications Services Company Size: 51-200 employees Founded: 1998 (Global headquarters in London and New York) Company Description: Weber Shandwick is a global communications and marketing services firm, providing strategic and creative solutions to clients in various industries, including healthcare. Company Specialties: Healthcare communications, public relations, digital communications, market access, issues management, and public health education. Company Website: webershandwick.com ASSUMPTION: Weber Shandwick is a well-established global company with a strong presence in the healthcare communications sector. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Mid to Senior-level management position Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Managing Director of Weber Shandwick Tokyo and oversees a team of account managers and executives. Work Arrangement: Hybrid work arrangement, with a flexible combination of on-site and remote work. Growth Opportunities: - Opportunities to work with global and domestic prestigious healthcare clients - Potential to grow within the company, taking on more responsibilities or moving into a leadership role - Chance to strengthen creative and strategic communication skills and gain global experience ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within a global organization. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space in Tokyo Office Location(s): 2 Waterhouse Square, 140 Holborn, London, EC1N 2AE, GB; 909 Third Avenue, New York, NY 10022, US (Global headquarters) Geographic Context: Tokyo offers a vibrant, multicultural environment with a strong business hub and a thriving healthcare industry. Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for hybrid work arrangement ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement allows for a better work-life balance while still providing opportunities for in-person collaboration and networking. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application submission; 2. Phone or video screen; 3. In-person or virtual interview with hiring manager and team members; 4. Final interview with senior leadership; 5. Offer extension Key Assessment Areas: - Communication and presentation skills - Strategic thinking and problem-solving abilities - Cultural fit and alignment with company values - Healthcare industry knowledge and understanding of the Japanese market Application Tips: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role - Prepare examples of your work and be ready to discuss your approach to healthcare communications challenges - Research Weber Shandwick and the healthcare industry in Japan to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm for the role ATS Keywords: Healthcare communications, public relations, strategic planning, project management, client relations, team leadership, business development, scientific expertise, regulatory knowledge, storytelling, digital literacy, analytical thinking, attention to detail, mentoring, collaboration, communication skills, growth mindset ASSUMPTION: Applicants should focus on demonstrating their relevant experience and skills in their application materials to increase their chances of success. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Project) - Communication and collaboration platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams) - Healthcare-specific software and databases (e.g., Veeva, IQVIA) ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with industry-standard tools and platforms is essential for success in this role. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: Weber Shandwick values include integrity, collaboration, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact on society. Work Style: Weber Shandwick encourages a collaborative, innovative, and agile work environment, with a focus on continuous learning and growth. Self-Assessment Questions: - How do you embody Weber Shandwick's values in your daily work? - How do you approach collaboration and teamwork, especially in a hybrid work environment? - How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and continuous learning? ASSUMPTION: Applicants should consider how their personal values and work style align with Weber Shandwick's culture and be prepared to discuss their fit during the interview process. ⚠️ Potential Challenges - Managing multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously - Balancing the needs of global and domestic clients with varying expectations and time zones - Navigating the complex and evolving Japanese healthcare landscape - Maintaining work-life balance in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment ASSUMPTION: Applicants should be prepared to address these potential challenges and demonstrate their ability to thrive in a demanding role. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison - Vice President, Healthcare Communications (Global PR Agency) - More focused on global client management and international strategy - Less emphasis on domestic client management and Japanese market-specific expertise - Senior Account Director, Healthcare (Regional PR Agency) - More focused on day-to-day account management and tactical execution - Less strategic and leadership responsibilities - Healthcare Communications Manager (In-house, Pharmaceutical Company) - More focused on internal communications and employee engagement - Less emphasis on external client management and agency-specific dynamics ASSUMPTION: Applicants should consider how their career goals and experiences align with the specific requirements and context of this role. 📝 Sample Projects - Developing and executing a multi-channel communications campaign to launch a new pharmaceutical product in Japan - Managing a crisis communications situation for a healthcare client facing regulatory scrutiny - Creating and implementing a thought leadership strategy for a healthcare executive speaking at an international conference ASSUMPTION: Applicants should be prepared to discuss their relevant experience and provide examples of their work in healthcare communications. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview - How does this role fit into the overall strategy and growth plans for Weber Shandwick Tokyo? - What are the most significant challenges facing the healthcare communications industry in Japan, and how can this role address them? - How does Weber Shandwick support the professional development and growth of its employees? - What is the expected timeline for onboarding and ramping up to full productivity in this role? ASSUMPTION: Applicants should use the interview process to gather information about the company, team, and role, as well as to demonstrate their qualifications and fit. 📌 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 examples of your work and be ready to discuss your approach to healthcare communications challenges - Research Weber Shandwick and the healthcare industry in Japan to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm for the role - Follow up with a thank-you note after your interview, reiterating your interest in the position and the company ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.