Associate Director, Digital Transformation and Function Liaison Lead – Japan

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Job Description

Engagement Summary:

We are seeking a dynamic and strategic Associate Director of Project and Change Management to join our Digital Transformation team within the Technology, Digitalization, and Computational Sciences Research group. This role will be instrumental in driving the successful adoption of digital solutions across our Japan based research organization by combining robust change management practices with strong project management capabilities.

The ideal candidate will work with both Japanese and US based teams to lead cross-functional initiatives, develop and execute strategic roadmaps, and oversee the tracking of key performance indicators (KPIs) to ensure measurable impact. You will work closely with research scientists, function leads, and senior leadership to align transformation efforts with organizational goals and ensure readiness for change.

Key Responsibilities:

Change Management

• Adapt global change management strategies to support local digital transformation.
• Develop communication plans for sharing objectives and progress with Japanese stakeholders.
• Work with leaders to assess readiness and address resistance to change.
• Support creation of Japanese-language training and upskilling materials for new digital tools.

Project Management and Strategic Execution

• Lead the planning and delivery of digital transformation projects across Japan based Research functions.
• Coordinate with U.S. strategy teams to align roadmaps and governance with Japanese objectives.
• Promote cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder alignment.

Performance Measurement

• Track and report KPIs relevant to local implementation and global impact.
• Use data insights to refine strategies and improve adoption rates.
• Establish stakeholder feedback loops to continuously improve project outcomes.

Qualifications:

Education and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree and 12–15+ years of relevant experience, or
• Master’s degree and 10–13+ years of relevant experience
• PhD and 5-7+ years of relevant experience
• Experience in multinational or cross-cultural environments strongly preferred

Required Skills

• Fluent in Japanese and English (written and spoken)
• Proven experience in change and project management within Research or scientific settings
• Strong understanding of digital tools and scientific workflows
• Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and leadership skills
• Familiarity with Agile methodologies and KPI tracking

Takeda Compensation and Benefits Summary:

• Allowances: Commutation, Housing, Overtime Work etc.

• Salary Increase: Annually, Bonus Payment: Twice a year

• Working Hours: Headquarters (Osaka/ Tokyo) 9:00-17:30, Production Sites (Osaka/ Yamaguchi) 8:00-16:45, (Narita) 8:30-17:15, Research Site (Kanagawa) 9:00-17:45

• Holidays: Saturdays, Sundays, National Holidays, May Day, Year-End Holidays etc. (approx. 123 days in a year)

• Paid Leaves: Annual Paid Leave, Special Paid Leave, Sick Leave, Family Support Leave, Maternity Leave, Childcare Leave, Family Nursing Leave.

• Flexible Work Styles: Flextime, Telework

• Benefits: Social Insurance, Retirement and Corporate Pension, Employee Stock Ownership Program, etc.

Important Notice concerning working conditions:

• It is possible the job scope may change at the company’s discretion.

• It is possible the department and workplace may change at the company’s discretion.

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