Director, WIPO Japan Office

Organizational Context

The WIPO Japan Office (WJO) promotes WIPO's global IP services and raises awareness of intellectual property in Japan through outreach and service delivery. It engages with national stakeholders to support WIPO services, coordinates with other UN agencies, and implements activities with the Government of Japan, including through the Japan Funds-in-Trust. The office provides customer support and maintains a Japanese-language website.

Job Purpose

The role's purpose is to lead and oversee the WIPO Japan Office (WJO) to enhance WIPO's presence, partnerships, and service delivery within Japan. This involves aligning programs, stakeholder engagement, and resources with organizational priorities, while offering strategic insights and fostering high-level cooperation with government and stakeholders. The incumbent is responsible for the effective management of the Japan Funds-in-Trust and related initiatives, ensuring results through sound resource, risk, and performance management to drive the growth, quality, and impact of WIPO's services in alignment with global strategic objectives.

Responsibilities

Manage and oversee WJO activities to drive the growth and enhancement of WIPO services in Japan, building partnerships to support WIPO's strategic goals. Analyze needs and trends in Japan to develop WJO's Program of Work and Budget proposals and work plans, improving the quality and use of WIPO services for IP protection. Engage with senior government officials to ensure effective communication and cooperation, supporting activities funded by the Japan Funds-in-Trust. Develop and manage strategic networks with IP stakeholders in Japan to provide feedback on emerging user needs. Represent WIPO at conferences and seminars in Japan and the Asia-Pacific region. Leverage UN presence in Japan for coordinated engagement with other UN agencies. Determine priorities and allocate resources for timely, high-quality delivery of work products, managing key risks to achieve KPIs.

Work Experience

At least 15 years of experience in intellectual property, including at least six years in senior management. Experience in promoting IP services through cooperation and networks, and sound experience in at least one international IP system (PCT, Madrid, Hague) are essential. Experience in an international setting is required.

Skills

Proven ability to foster innovation and lead change in a multicultural environment. Familiarity with WIPO's Global IP services (PCT, Madrid, Hague) or creative economy issues. Excellent leadership, people management, resource management, and coordination skills. Strong diplomatic, communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills. Excellent analytical, decision-making, and negotiation skills. Sound political judgment for building high-level partnerships.

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