Director, Government Affairs - Japan

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At Illumina, we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life-changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person, in every role, has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders, and world changing projects, you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Position Summary:

The Director of Government Affairs for Japan will be responsible for driving direct engagement and establishing a wide network with senior decision makers and foster strong business relationships across a wide platform of key opinion leaders, relevant health and research institutions and ministries. In partnership with the broader team, the Director will develop and execute a strategy to further increase access to genomics for Japanese patients and researchers. As the leading genomics technology company, Illumina have experienced impressive growth in an area which is only just beginning to emerge as a major influence in areas such as personalized medicine, oncology, reproductive health and molecular diagnostics as well as food testing, agrigenomics and use in public health.

Reporting to the Senior Director of Government Affairs for Asia Pacific, this role will continue to actively engage with key stakeholders to drive policy change and adoption of our innovative products as an industry standard for genomic analysis.

Position Responsibilities:

• Work with the Government Affairs and Commercial Leadership Team to develop Illumina’s strategy, programs and resource plan to meet the overall growth strategy and priorities for Japan.
• Develop and maintain relationships and a ready communications channel with senior decision makers relevant to Illumina’s business, including but not limited to key policy influencers within the Ministry of Health Labor and Welfare, Ministry of Finance, Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agencies and the Diet.
• Play an active role in thought leadership initiatives to build a positive and favorable image for Illumina with the above stated organizations. He/she would identify and create platforms for Illumina to participate in that affect Illumina’s business and standing in the Japan economy.
• Facilitate meetings with stakeholders for the Illumina commercial team and visiting senior Illumina executives
• Monitor the legislative and policy changes, and industry, technology and investment priorities. Provide input to the leadership team on business development opportunities and longer-term business strategies.
• Actively participate in trade/commercial related bodies and various programs between Japan and the United States in order to establish contacts with peer companies to promote and expand Illumina’s business opportunities.
• Engage with trade associations, research institutions, industry partners, non-profit groups, and other allies to promote and build support for public policy positions.
• Working with the Asia Pacific Government Affairs Team, support in managing government affairs consultant for Japan.

Listed responsibilities are an essential, but not exhaustive list, of the usual duties associated with the position. Changes to individual responsibilities may occur due to business needs.

Position Requirements:

• 8-12 years experience working with or in government, politics or relevant regulatory agencies and/or have expertise in the Japan political environment and processes.
• Strong government affairs contacts in government ministries relevant to Illumina.
• Related experience in Life Science, Pharma and/or Clinical Diagnostics issues an advantage.
• Senior executive presence and strong business acumen; Able to work across the company to identify opportunities.
• A self-starter, using good analytical skills and a strategic approach to highlight key opportunities and challenges for business growth.
• Excellent written and oral communications skills including fluency in Japanese and English.

All listed requirements are deemed as essential functions to this position; however, business conditions may require reasonable accommodations for additional task and responsibilities.

Preferred Experience/Education/Skills:

• Educational background in Law, Politics, Business, Biology or related degree
• An understanding of genomics and its applications is a plus

Illumina believes that everyone has the ability to make an impact, and we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship status, and genetic information.