We’re hiring: Communications Coordinator

Communications Coordinator – Higher Education Cooperation Development Project

The Finnish Institute in Japan is seeking a Communications Coordinator for a fixed-term development project aimed at mapping and strengthening higher education and research cooperation between Finland and Japan.

The position is linked to the Institute’s strategic development. The Institute is currently renewing its operational models and aims to reinforce the structures of higher education and research cooperation, as well as their communication and visibility. The role offers a unique vantage point on cultural, research and higher education collaboration between Finland and Japan.

You will work as part of a small and highly professional team in an international environment and participate in the Institute’s programme and network activities.

During the project, the objective is to identify cooperation opportunities, develop operational models, and strengthen communication and networking within the higher education sector.

The position is particularly suited to an early- or mid-career professional with an interest in international higher education and research collaboration.

This is a fixed-term, part-time position under the terms and conditions for locally employed staff. The Institute is based in Tokyo.

Key Responsibilities

• Mapping and analysing opportunities for higher education and research cooperation between Finland and Japan
• Supporting the planning and implementation of the Institute’s communications related to higher education cooperation
• Liaising with Finnish and Japanese universities, researchers, students and administrative stakeholders
• Developing information sharing, documentation and visibility related to higher education cooperation
• Coordinating meetings, networks and collaborative events
• Identifying potential funding channels and support mechanisms in Finland and Japan
• Preparing recommendations and development proposals for the Institute’s future activities

Skills and Qualifications

• A relevant higher education degree or equivalent competence
• Understanding of different communication channels and target audiences
• Interest in or experience of the higher education sector, research collaboration, or the international academic environment
• Strong organisational and interpersonal skills, and the ability to work independently
• Excellent written and spoken English
• Good IT skills and competence in visual communication

Considered an Advantage

• Proficiency in Japanese
• Proficiency in Finnish
• Experience of international cooperation
• Knowledge of regional funding structures

Working Hours and Duration

The duration of the project will be agreed based on the selected candidate’s experience and the project objectives to be defined in more detail jointly. The working time will be 3–5 days per week for a period of 9–12 months.

How to Apply

Please send a free-form application and CV no later than Thursday, 12 March 2026 at 17.00 (Finnish time) / 24.00 (Japan time) to:

applications(at)finstitute.jp

Further Information

Jaakko Nousiainen
Director
The Finnish Institute in Japan
Email: jaakko.nousiainen(at)finstitute.jp

Telephone enquiries: Mondays 2 or 9 March, 9.00–11.00 (Finnish time) / 16.00–18.00 (Japan time)
Tel. +81 (0)3 5447 6040