Region Head of Communications & Government Relations - Europe (f/m/d)

The opportunity

We are looking for an experienced, strategically minded communications leader with a strong background in communications, public affairs and/or government relations. This pivotal role requires sharp business acumen, an agile mindset, and a hands-on approach to execution.

As Region Head of Communications & Government Relations (CGR) for Europe, you will be responsible for positioning the Hitachi brand and elevating its visibility among customers, policymakers, and society at large, fully aligned with our global strategy. You will lead the development and execution of a comprehensive communications and public affairs strategy across the region, manage relationships with key internal and external stakeholders, and support global strategic planning processes. Reporting to the Chief Communications & Government Relations Officer, and working in total alignment with the Region Head, Europe, you will lead a high-performing team of communications professionals. You will also coordinate regional government relations activities in close collaboration with the Head of Global Political Affairs, while engaging with colleagues across our global communications network.

• Lead and oversee all CGR activities across the European region
• Manage and develop a high-performing regional CGR team, including strategic direction, performance oversight, and professional development
• Coordinate regional Political Affairs efforts in alignment with the Global Head of Political Affairs, ensuring cohesive advocacy and engagement strategies with policymakers and regulators
• Ensure full alignment of regional initiatives with global CGR strategies, messaging, and priorities

• Actively contribute to the evolution and refinement of the Hitachi Energy brand narrative as a member of the global CGR leadership team
• Ensure consistent and effective deployment of brand positioning across all communications activities, touchpoints, and channels in the region
• Safeguard brand integrity and visibility while tailoring messaging to regional market dynamics and stakeholder expectations

• Develop and implement integrated internal and external communications strategies that support business growth, market positioning, and employee engagement
• Lead the regional planning and budgeting process for all CGR activities, ensuring alignment with business objectives and global frameworks
• Work closely with regional HUBs and global CGR colleagues to ensure effective coordination and execution of strategic communication plans

• Inspire and guide a team of communications professionals, fostering collaboration, creativity, and high performance across regions and functions
• Build bridges across business units, functions, and countries to ensure a unified and agile communications approach
• Serve as a key advisor and sparring partner to the Regional Business Leader and senior management team

• Extensive Experience - a minimum of 15 years of progressive experience in communications, media relations, event management, and/or public/government affairs, ideally in a multinational, matrixed organization
• Cross-Functional Communication Expertise - demonstrated ability to lead across the full spectrum of communication disciplines including brand management, media relations, internal communications, digital and social media, editorial content, and crisis communications
• Strategic and Operational Planning Skills - strong planning, prioritization, and organizational capabilities with the ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholder expectations simultaneously
• In-Depth Knowledge of Communication Practices - a deep understanding of effective communication tools, methodologies, and best practices, as well as the ability to tailor strategies for different audiences and regions
• Digital Fluency - solid understanding of digital communication platforms and the strategic use of social media to build reputation, drive engagement, and support business objectives
• Business Acumen - strong commercial awareness with the ability to link communication efforts to business strategy, performance, and market impact
• Global Mindset with Multicultural Competence - outstanding interpersonal and networking skills, with the ability to build trust and collaborate across diverse cultural and functional contexts
• Sector and Regional Knowledge - international work experience is essential. Direct experience in the European region and/or the energy or technology sector is a significant advantage
• Executive Presence and Influence - experience working directly with senior leadership teams; ability to provide strategic counsel, influence decision-making, and represent the function at the highest levels
• Stakeholder Engagement - proactive and diplomatic communicator with a track record of engaging local and regional business partners, government bodies, and internal stakeholders with impact and integrity
• Language Proficiency - Proficiency in spoken and written English is essential. Proficiency in one or more additional European languages is a strong plus