Account Director, Consumer

Tokyo, Japan

Published

01/15/2025

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Who is Weber Shandwick?

Part of The Weber Shandwick Collective (TWSC), we’re the earned-first global communications agency, led by world-class strategic thinkers and creative activators. We create shared and sustainable value for businesses, people, and society. We energise the right mix of talent, using the right platforms and latest technology to choreograph stories that make a real and meaningful impact for some of the world’s leading brands and businesses. 

Our game-changing work is recognised by some of the most prestigious industry awards bodies, and we have won more than 135 Lions at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. We’re also PRWeek’s 2024 Global Agency of the Year as well as being listed on the Ad Age A-List 2024 and Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2024. 

 

What’s Happening? 

Join our dynamic team where innovation meets expertise. Weber Shandwick Tokyo is looking for an experienced, ambitious and energetic Account Director to join our team and support some of our most exciting clients, both global and domestic. (Will also consider candidates at Senior Manager level) 

You will have the unique opportunity to shape the narrative for leading companies in the consumer space. You’ll be joining a talented team that creates cultural value and helps brands navigate the ever-changing age of communications. 

We are proud to work with the world’s largest corporations, companies, and organisations. This role offers you the same opportunity – to work with the biggest and best clients in the world.   

 

What will you be doing? 

  • Builds client relationships by providing counsel to multiple clients, driving execution of tactical plans to ensure high-quality deliverables.
  • Successfully manages client expectations, team resources, and deliverables around major campaigns and projects.
  • Serves as an active participant in client meetings and presentations; crafts, presents, and executes integrated communications strategies for major campaigns.
  • Conducts and manages the flow of research and materials development necessary to analyse client issues.
  • Functions across disciplines with a knowledge of social media strategies and tactics.
  • Monitors media outlets for coverage of client and competitor news, leveraging digital and social outlets, a diverse set of influencers, etc.
  • Understands industry issues that directly and indirectly affect the client.
  • Composes media materials (press releases, pitch notes, client briefings, messaging documents, sample Q&A, proposals, bylined articles, supporting social content, etc.) and conducts media outreach.
  • Proofs and edits client-related documents.
  • Brainstorms and brings to life compelling ideas for clients and media.
  • Leads small teams to conduct pressing research on a wide range of issues, reviews and prepares executive summaries and/or analyses of information into strategic and actionable recommendations. 

 

Who are you? 

  • You will have at least 7-8 years of working in the Marketing and Communications field, with previous PR agency experience.  
  • Proven experience of media relations planning for consumer clients. 
  • Native Japanese speaker and exceptional written and verbal communication skills. A strong command of English is also required. 
  • Ability to lead by example and take time to mentor junior members of the team. Be patient and identify areas of development and provide training that could support their growth. 
  • Excellent project management and organisational skills 
  • Ability to translate client needs into effective project plans.
  • Strong collaboration and vendor management skills are essential – you’ll be able to work effectively and build strong relationships with the client, internal stakeholders and external vendors such as event, creative and influencer marketing agencies 
  • You’ll be a strong negotiator, with the ability to influence and persuade others 
  • Experience of delivering integrated marketing and communications campaigns across multiple platforms.
  • Ability to effectively build external relationships. 

 

TWSC Values

Everything we do at TWSC is rooted in our core values of CURIOSITY, INCLUSION, COURAGE and IMPACT.

We believe that the world of work has changed, which is why we have developed a unique employee experience that reflects the world we’re living in. Here’s what we offer:

Flexible Working – We understand the need for flexible working and empower our employees to deliver impactful work wherever they are based.

Global Mobility –We unlock opportunities for our employees by utilising our powerful network, and through our mobility initiative Access All Areas, which includes policies on ‘Work from Anywhere’, ‘International Relocation’ and our global ‘Explorer Program’

Inclusive Culture – We look for qualified people from all backgrounds who are restless, curious and want to deliver impactful work in an environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. We strive every day to foster as inclusive a culture as possible.

Mental Health and Wellbeing – Helping our people stay happy, healthy, and productive is our number one priority, so we’ll support your day-to-day life with our bespoke Intellect wellbeing offering

 

Note from the team

Weber Shandwick is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Weber Shandwick is committed to building a culture where all employees are seen as equal, are respected and where all opinions are heard. We take pride in our inclusive hiring, as well as our diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates

 

 

#LI-LW1

We make our careers website accessible to any and all users. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact us at JobAppAccommodation@ipgdxtra.com. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or vendors; rather it is strictly for applicants who require special assistance accessing our employment website. Due to volume, messages sent to this email address that are not related to an accommodation cannot be answered.

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Tokyo, Japan

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Who is Weber Shandwick?

Part of The Weber Shandwick Collective (TWSC), we’re the earned-first global communications agency, led by world-class strategic thinkers and creative activators. We create shared and sustainable value for businesses, people, and society. We energise the right mix of talent, using the right platforms and latest technology to choreograph stories that make a real and meaningful impact for some of the world’s leading brands and businesses. 

Our game-changing work is recognised by some of the most prestigious industry awards bodies, and we have won more than 135 Lions at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. We’re also PRWeek’s 2024 Global Agency of the Year as well as being listed on the Ad Age A-List 2024 and Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2024. 

 

What’s Happening?

We’re looking for a talented Manager to join our Consumer team. Our communications offer is rapidly evolving as clients turn to us for strategically focused and imaginative communications solutions that build and protect their reputations while influencing and shaping the operating environment around them.

The ideal candidate will be able to draw upon experiences bringing knowledge and insight into a range of sectors, combined with excellent client servicing and media relations skills. You’ll also need a strong understanding of how digital fits into wider integrated communications programmes, as well as brilliant technical writing skills and a keen eye for detail when it comes to managing project progress.

What will you be doing?

  • Building trust and confidence with clients by consistently ensuring that executional work is delivered by the team on time, within budget and to an exceptional standard of quality
  • Demonstrating stand-out project management skills, making sure that internal and external deadlines are managed to deliver work on time, including overseeing junior colleagues’ delivery of progress tracking, contact reports and media monitoring summaries
  • Developing tactical plans for client activities and working with your account teams to ensure your clients are getting the best expertise and experience Weber Shandwick has to offer
  • Writing a range of copy, including press releases and feature articles, as well as posts for clients’ digital and social media channels, including Instagram, Threads and TikTok.  
  • Monitors media outlets for coverage of client and competitor news, leveraging digital and social outlets and a diverse set of influencers.  
  • Participating in the creative development of integrated campaigns for new and existing clients, and supporting the team in researching and preparing new business opportunities

 

Who are you?

  • At least 3 years of experience of working in either an account servicing role in a PR agency or in-house communications role, within the consumer industry  
  • Native Japanese language skills and a basic command of English as you’ll be working with both domestic and international clients and stakeholders  
  • Ambitious, with a passion for public relations and the vision to progress your career to a senior level with Weber Shandwick
  • Unafraid to ask questions and to challenge clients’ and colleagues’ perspectives when necessary
  • Highly organised with exceptional attention to detail
  • Demonstrable experience in public relations and communications
  • Proven media skills and relationships with national and trade journalists
  • An avid consumer of media with an active interest in news and current affairs
  • Able to digest complex information and turn into compelling written copy
  • A lateral thinker – able to join the dots between various projects, and solve problems!
  • Fluency in digital/social media platforms, with an appetite to learn more

 

TWSC Pledge and Values

Our pledge is to welcome one and all, cheer you on, and give you the platform to have the best career possible with us. And everything we do at TWSC is rooted in our core values of CURIOSITY, INCLUSION, COURAGE and IMPACT.

We believe that the world of work has changed, which is why we have developed a unique employee experience that reflects the world we’re living in. Here’s what we offer:

Flexible Working – We understand the need for flexible working and empower our employees to deliver impactful work wherever they are based.

Global Mobility –We unlock opportunities for our employees by utilising our powerful network, and through our mobility initiative Access All Areas, which includes policies on ‘Work from Anywhere’, ‘International Relocation’ and our global ‘Explorer Program’

Inclusive Culture – We look for qualified people from all backgrounds who are restless, curious and want to deliver impactful work in an environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. We strive every day to foster as inclusive a culture as possible.

Mental Health and Wellbeing – Helping our people stay happy, healthy, and productive is our number one priority, so we’ll support your day-to-day life with our bespoke Intellect wellbeing offering.

 

Note from the team

Weber Shandwick is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Weber Shandwick is committed to building a culture where all employees are seen as equal, are respected and where all opinions are heard. We take pride in our inclusive hiring, as well as our diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

#LI-LW1

 

 

We make our careers website accessible to any and all users. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact us at JobAppAccommodation@ipgdxtra.com. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or vendors; rather it is strictly for applicants who require special assistance accessing our employment website. Due to volume, messages sent to this email address that are not related to an accommodation cannot be answered.

Tokyo, Japan

Vice President, Communications - Consumer

About the opportunity:  

Weber Shandwick is currently seeking an ambitious Vice President for our Consumer team to oversee key international accounts. The ideal candidate will enjoy creating integrated marketing and communications strategies, providing high level guidance to advice to clients and be a natural leader and mentor. You’ll be a native Japanese speaker, with fluency in English. More junior candidates will be considered for an AD position. 

You’ll be working with a brilliant team to oversee the running of the accounts, provide counsel and strategic direction, and motivate the team to craft exceptional, award-winning work! 

 

Responsibilities: 

  • Planning and execution of integrated marketing and communication strategies and tactics for international consumer clients  
  • Provide strategic counsel to clients where possible, being able to assess problems and define logical and effective solutions for clients. 
  • Lead the delivery of high quality earned activity, which includes development of media and channel strategies, story development and management of third parties. 
  • Brief and inform account teams. Communicate expectations/goals to team on an ongoing basis, helping to keep team motivated by communicating clear tasks and actions. 
  • Leading the team and being there to support and advise, working closely with them to motivate and drive performance and provide guidance on their career development.  
  • Development of digital and social strategies – you’ll be working together with the regional digital team to craft integrated ideas and campaigns for clients  
  • Develop and maintain positive relationships with clients and improve the company’s reputation in terms of delivery and quality. 

 

Who are you? 

  • At least 8 years of relevant PR and Communications experience, with some PR agency experience and an understanding of Consumer clients.  
  • A brilliant understanding of what makes an earned story – and how to make them travel across multiple channels 
  • An excellent communicator, you build connections and trust quickly with the people around you 
  • Previous experience of managing a team and a natural leader and mentor. You’ll enjoy developing and nurturing talent and be able to quickly identify areas of development and execute training where needed.   
  • Strategic mindset – you will be able to anticipate potential roadblocks and keep ahead of the curve with emerging trends 
  • Proven project management skills, leading multiple teams, as well as interagency, to deliver work that 
  • Strong social and digital acumen – highly competent at developing and executing influencer programs, social listening and wider digital and social strategies 
  • Experience in planning and execution of multi-channel communications strategies and tactics 
  • Fluent in both Japanese and English and a strong  and confident communicator when presenting to clients and dealing with internal stakehdolders.  

 

COMPANY OVERVIEW 

Part of The Weber Shandwick Collective, we’re the earned-first global communications agency, led by world-class strategic thinkers and creative activators. We create shared and sustainable value for businesses, people, and society. We energise the right mix of talent, using the right platforms and latest technology to choreograph stories that make a real and meaningful impact for some of the world’s leading brands and businesses.   

Our game-changing work is recognised by some of the most prestigious industry awards bodies, and we have won more than 135 Lions at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. We’re also PRWeek’s 2024 Global Agency of the Year and PRovoke Global SABRES’ 2024 Global Healthcare Agency of the Year, as well as being listed on the Ad Age A-List 2024 and Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2024.   

 

TWSC VALUES  

Everything we do at TWSC is rooted in our core values of CURIOSITY, INCLUSION, COURAGE and IMPACT.  

We believe that the world of work has changed, which is why we have developed a unique employee experience that reflects the world we’re living in. Here’s what we offer:   

Flexible Working – We understand the need for flexible working and empower our employees to deliver impactful work wherever they are based.   

Global Mobility –We unlock opportunities for our employees by utilising our powerful network, and through our mobility initiative Access All Areas, which includes policies on ‘Work from Anywhere’, ‘International Relocation’ and our global ‘Explorer Program’   

Inclusive Culture – We look for qualified people from all backgrounds who are restless, curious and want to deliver impactful work in an environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. We strive every day to foster as inclusive a culture as possible.  

Mental Health and Wellbeing – Helping our people stay happy, healthy, and productive is our number one priority, so we’ll support your day-to-day life with our bespoke Intellect wellbeing offering.   

 

A note on inclusion 

Weber Shandwick is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Weber Shandwick is committed to building a culture where all employees are seen as equal, are respected and where all opinions are heard. We take pride in our inclusive hiring, as well as our diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates. 

#LI-LW1

We make our careers website accessible to any and all users. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact us at JobAppAccommodation@ipgdxtra.com. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or vendors; rather it is strictly for applicants who require special assistance accessing our employment website. Due to volume, messages sent to this email address that are not related to an accommodation cannot be answered.

Tokyo, Japan

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About the opportunity: 

Weber Shandwick is seeking an experienced and ambitious Executive Vice President (EVP) for our Healthcare team in Japan. This pivotal role involves spearheading public relations and communications strategies for our esteemed international and domestic clients within the healthcare sector.

Responsibilities:

Client Management:

  • Serve as a primary point of contact and trusted advisor for our Healthcare clients based in Tokyo
  • Develop and maintain strong, long-lasting client relationships, ensuring client satisfaction and retention.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for senior client communications, providing strategic counsel and guidance on PR and communications initiatives.
  • Collaborate with clients to understand their business objectives and align communication strategies to meet their goals.
  • Lead client presentations, pitches, and strategic planning sessions to drive client success.
  • Work closely with Weber Shandwick regional and global account leads within Healthcare, ensuring global client relationships are maintained.

Strategic Planning and Execution:

  • Develop comprehensive strategic communication plans for healthcare clients, aligning with their business objectives and target audiences.
  • Oversee the execution of PR campaigns, product launches, medical education programs, and events to ensure alignment with strategic goals.
  • Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and regulatory changes to inform strategic planning and decision-making.

Team Leadership and Mentoring:

  • Provide strong leadership and mentorship to a team of healthcare communications professionals, fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment.
  • Set clear expectations, provide guidance, and empower team members to excel in their roles.
  • Conduct performance evaluations, identify training needs, and facilitate professional development opportunities for team members.

Industry Expertise and Thought Leadership:

  • Act as a thought leader, representing Weber Shandwick and sharing insights at industry events, conferences, and through thought leadership content.
  • Contribute to the development of intellectual property, research, and whitepapers that showcase Weber Shandwick’s expertise in healthcare PR & communications.

 

PERSON PROFILE

  • At least 10 years’ experience in Healthcare communications and previous experience of working in an agency environment. 
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with fluency in both Japanese and English
  • Extensive experience in healthcare communications, with a proven track record of managing PR campaigns, client relationships, and team leadership within an agency setting.  
  • You’re a thought leader across the industry with a strong network across international and domestic Healthcare and Pharmaceutical companies in Japan.  
  • Proven people leader who can demonstrate their ability to manage teams and individuals and provide them with the support and encouragement that enables them to perform to their fullest  
  • Demonstrated experience in developing and executing integrated communications strategies within the healthcare sector.
  • Strong business acumen and strategic thinking, with the ability to drive growth and deliver impactful results for clients. 

 

COMPANY OVERVIEW

Part of The Weber Shandwick Collective, we’re the earned-first global communications agency, led by world-class strategic thinkers and creative activators. We create shared and sustainable value for businesses, people, and society. We energise the right mix of talent, using the right platforms and latest technology to choreograph stories that make a real and meaningful impact for some of the world’s leading brands and businesses.  

Our game-changing work is recognised by some of the most prestigious industry awards bodies, and we have won more than 135 Lions at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. We’re also PRWeek’s 2024 Global Agency of the Year and PRovoke Global SABRES’ 2024 Global Healthcare Agency of the Year, as well as being listed on the Ad Age A-List 2024 and Fast Company’s Most Innovative Companies 2024.  

 

TWSC VALUES  

Everything we do at TWSC is rooted in our core values of CURIOSITY, INCLUSION, COURAGE and IMPACT. 

We believe that the world of work has changed, which is why we have developed a unique employee experience that reflects the world we’re living in. Here’s what we offer:  

Flexible Working – We understand the need for flexible working and empower our employees to deliver impactful work wherever they are based.  

Global Mobility –We unlock opportunities for our employees by utilising our powerful network, and through our mobility initiative Access All Areas, which includes policies on ‘Work from Anywhere’, ‘International Relocation’ and our global ‘Explorer Program’  

Inclusive Culture – We look for qualified people from all backgrounds who are restless, curious and want to deliver impactful work in an environment where everyone can be their authentic selves. We strive every day to foster as inclusive a culture as possible. 

Mental Health and Wellbeing – Helping our people stay happy, healthy, and productive is our number one priority, so we’ll support your day-to-day life with our bespoke Intellect wellbeing offering.  

 

A note on inclusion

Weber Shandwick is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Weber Shandwick is committed to building a culture where all employees are seen as equal, are respected and where all opinions are heard. We take pride in our inclusive hiring, as well as our diverse workforce and we welcome applications from all qualified candidates.

 

#LI-AS2 

We make our careers website accessible to any and all users. If you need an accommodation to participate in the application process, please contact us at JobAppAccommodation@ipgdxtra.com. This email address is not for general employment inquiries or vendors; rather it is strictly for applicants who require special assistance accessing our employment website. Due to volume, messages sent to this email address that are not related to an accommodation cannot be answered.