Head of Media

【Main Purpose of Job】 This is a key role at the heart of the Japan Network, where you will lead the planning and delivery of communications and marketing campaigns aligned with the Japan Network’s key strategic communication themes as an expert in media. Providing strategic planning and advice on media engagement and comms channel mix to others in the Japan Network, covering from traditional media to digital media, you will contribute to effective media plans for campaigns and broader communications strategies. Cultivating and maintaining effective relationships with Japanese media (TV, print, news agency, radio, digital) and international media based in Japan, you will further the strategic objectives of the Japan Network. You will provide guidelines on style, ensuring appropriate quality and tone of translated Japanese language materials for public dissemination. As part of the leadership of the Communications section, you will line manage up to four Communications Officers, setting clear priorities, supporting professional development, and supporting the Head of Communications Section. 【Key Responsibilities】 Deliver strategic communications campaigns and effective project management (50%) - Devise and deliver value-added cross-departmental campaigns delivering on Country Plan objectives. - Work with FCDO departments and DBT to focus communications on areas of greatest opportunity. - Evaluate activities using media monitoring tools and direct all communication channels. Excellent people management and leadership (25%) - Line management of up to 4 Communications Officers. - Direct oversight of internal and external stakeholder engagements. - Engagement with senior management, deputising for Head of Communications Section when required, and role in Crisis Media team. Act as Japan Network’s media manager (15%) - Develop and update digital channel guidelines. - Ensure consistency in quality and tone for all Japanese written communications products (press releases, speeches, brochures). Cultivate and maintain a powerful media network (10%) - Proactively develop relationships with Japanese press/media contacts and UK Whitehall communications leads. Working Hours 37.5 hours per week *Flexible working patterns (compressed hours, working remotely 1 day/week, job-share) are supported subject to agreement. *Overtime work may be required due to embassy events, etc. Job Requirements 【Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience】 - 5+ years professional experience in communications positions with a public or private-sector organisation. - Proven experience working with Japanese media and digital media channels. - Proven skills in strategy design and managing complex communications campaigns. - Deep knowledge of the Japanese media landscape and proven ability to engage Japanese audiences. - Experience working with external agencies. - Strong IT skills (Microsoft Office suite and latest digital tools). 【Desirable Qualifications】 - Experience in journalism, publications, or government communications. - Relevant industry qualifications in comms, marketing, or project management. - Budget management experience. 【Language Requirements】 - Japanese: Native (Spoken and Written) - English: Business Level (Fluency/C1 level equivalent recommended)