The Senior Manager, External Communications is responsible for the corporate external communications and public relations of Ajinomoto Foods North America. The role’s purpose is to develop the Ajinomoto corporate brand around the strategic directions set for the brand and to create the overall public relations plan to develop brand equities among external stakeholders. As a member of the Strategic Branding and Marketing department, reporting directly to the Director, Branding & Communications, t... more details
Position Summary The Senior Manager, External Communications is responsible for the corporate external communications and public relations of Ajinomoto Foods North America. The role’s purpose is to develop the Ajinomoto corporate brand around the strategic directions set for the brand and to create the overall public relations plan to develop brand equities among external stakeholders. As a member of the Strategic Branding and Marketing department, reporting directly to the Director, Branding & Communications, the Senior Manager, External Communications will collaborate closely with the Director, Branding & Communications as well as the SVP, Head of Strategic Branding & Marketing to develop a forward communications arc and plan to reach long term objectives and drive aligned perceptions of the corporate brand. The role will create and deliver compelling stories, campaigns and engagements that showcase the company’s purpose, values, brands, and products. Position Essential Duties and Responsibilities The duties and responsibilities of the Senior Manager – External Communications are outlined below and include, but are not limited to the following: Develop and implement a comprehensive corporate external communications and public relations plan that aligns with AFNA purpose and values and strategic positioning goals and priorities while protecting the reputation of the corporate brand Collaborate with the teammates of the Strategic Branding and Marketing Department to ensure aligned adherence to set strategies Manage public relations executions aligned to public relation strategies and plans and within approved budgets Manage public relation agencies to build strong relationships with key media, influencers, industry associations, and community partners to promote the company’s thought leadership, expertise, and social impacts Oversee the company website ensuring coordination with AJINOMOTO CO. INC., corporate headquarters in Japan for aligned content and messaging as well as addressing needs of AFNA initiatives working together with the digital team of the SBM department Develop and manage all interview and ad hoc requests from media with recommendations on behalf of executives and oversee aligned preparation, coordination and implementation of any approved engagements Create and develop thought leadership opportunities including speaking opportunities, panels and public engagements that might promote corporate awareness and positive public perceptions aligned to long term positioning goals Manage external communication aspects of crisis related issues with the crisis communications team, led by the Internal Communications Manager, and ensure communications are in alignment with related cross functional guidance such as legal and HR Develop system to track and report goals achievements and provide regular updating and reports to team, department and senior management. Ensure compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, policies and guidelines related to all efforts Manage corporate relations with headquarters in Tokyo as well as ensure alignment with corporate guidelines Specific details are included in the Role Expectations sheet provided after hiring. Position Qualifications Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, public relations or other related field. Master’s degree preferred. Minimum 8 - 10 years relevant and progressive experience in branding, communications and public relations, preferably in the food industry or related sector. Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic and creative communications and public relations plans and campaigns that achieve measurable results. Proven excellence in verbal and written communications skills with the ability to craft compelling and engaging messages for various audiences and channels. Proven strength in managing multiple stakeholder relations, with demonstrated examples of managing complex relationships Demonstrated exceptional leadership and management skills with the ability to progress work through a diverse and high-performing team through influence Demonstrated high level of professionalism, maturity, integrity, and ethical standards with the ability to handle sensitive and confidential information with discretion Demonstrated ability to work under pressure, manage multiple objectives and deadlines and adapt to changing priorities and demands Demonstrated ability to be a highly collaborative team player Knowledge of and passion for Asian and ethnic foods and culture Ability in Japanese language a plus #INDONT $130,000 to $140,000
