Communications Manager | Remote, Part-time

Organization: U.S.-Japan Council
Location: Remote (U.S.)
Hours: Part-time Exempt (20–25 hours per week)

About the U.S.-Japan Council (USJC)

Founded by Japanese Americans in 2009, the U.S.-Japan Council is the premier organization dedicated to strengthening U.S.-Japan relations through people-to-people connections. From high school classrooms to corporate boardrooms, from college lecture halls to the halls of government, we develop and connect leaders at every level from all sectors committed to a strong and enduring global partnership.Through our transformative leadership initiatives, innovative exchange programs, and impactful in-person and virtual events we bring together leaders at every level to address key bilateral issues. Our community of members across the United States and Japan is a vibrant and diverse professional and personal network that fosters deep and meaningful connections.

Position Overview

USJC seeks a creative and detail-oriented Part-Time Communications Manager to support our communications efforts. The Manager will be responsible for assembling and distributing the organization’s monthly newsletter using Mailchimp, creating and posting social media content across platforms and making occasional website updates using WordPress. This role is ideal for a self-starter with excellent communication skills, an eye for design, and experience in digital communications.

Key Responsibilities

Newsletter Coordination:

  • Compile, edit, and format content for USJC’s monthly newsletter using Mailchimp.
  • Collaborate with team members to collect relevant updates, photos, and announcements.
  • Ensure the newsletter is engaging, visually appealing, and consistent with USJC branding.

Social Media Management:

  • Draft, schedule, and post social media content across platforms (LinkedIn, Twitter/X, Instagram, and Facebook).
  • Monitor engagement, respond to comments, and ensure consistent messaging.
  • Collaborate with staff to develop content that highlights USJC’s events, initiatives, and milestones.

Website Updates:

  • Perform occasional updates to the USJC website using WordPress, including editing content, uploading images, and updating event information.
  • Ensure the website remains user-friendly, visually appealing, and consistent with USJC branding.

Tracking Metrics and Online Presence:

  • Develop and track key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure the effectiveness of USJC’s communications efforts, including brand visibility and online presence.
  • Use tools like Google Analytics and social media insights to monitor website traffic and social media engagement.
  • Provide regular reports and recommendations to enhance reach and visibility.

Project Management with Outside Contractors:

  • Coordinate with external contractors for key projects, including the design and production of USJC’s Annual Report and Annual Conference program.
  • Manage timelines, deliverables, and quality assurance to ensure all materials align with USJC’s standards and branding.
  • Collaborate with internal staff to provide content and feedback to contractors as needed.

Occasional Public Relations Efforts:

  • Assist with occasional public relations initiatives, including drafting press releases, coordinating media outreach, and preparing materials for media inquiries.
  • Monitor and archive media coverage related to USJC events and initiatives.
  • Identify opportunities to elevate USJC’s presence through strategic PR efforts.

Brand Consistency:

  • Maintain adherence to USJC’s branding guidelines across all communications.
  • Support visual storytelling by sourcing and optimizing images for newsletters and social media.

Qualifications

  • Bachelor’s Degree (Preferred but not required) in fields such as Communications, Marketing, Public Relations, or a related discipline
  • At least 3 years’ directly related experience
  • Excellent writing and editing skills with attention to detail
  • Basic graphic design skills (e.g., Canva, Adobe Creative Suite) are a plus
  • Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines
  • Familiarity with USJC’s core audiences and Japanese language fluency a plus

Technical Skills

  • Proven experience with Mailchimp or similar email marketing platforms
  • Familiarity with WordPress for website content updates
  • Strong knowledge of social media platforms and content creation best practices
  • Familiarity with graphic design tools (e.g., Canva, Adobe Illustrator) for creating or managing marketing materials.

Core Competencies

  • Exceptional attention to detail and accuracy
  • Proven track record of high level of responsiveness in remote environment
  • Excellent interpersonal and team skills, extremely collegial
  • Demonstrated resourcefulness and good judgment
  • Clearly identified connection with or commitment to USJC’s mission

Additional Information

  • Occasional evening or weekend work may be required for Board meetings, fundraising events, or special projects.
  • Occasional travel may be required.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the communications efforts of a dynamic organization at the forefront of U.S.-Japan relations. We look forward to your application.

How to Apply

Please send resume and cover letter to [email protected]. Please include “Communications Manager PT” in the subject line. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled.

The U.S.-Japan Council is an EEO/AA employer. All qualified applicants will receive
consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national
origin, sexual orientation, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other
characteristic protected by law.