Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
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SAE KIKUCHI

Honolulu,USA

Summary

A strategic and dynamic PR and marketing leader with approximately seven years of experience in integrated communications across Japan, the U.S., Asia, and Europe. Currently serving as the Director of Integrated Marketing & PR at Vector USA (formerly PacRim Marketing Group), leading comprehensive PR and marketing initiatives across multiple industries. Expertise includes media relations, influencer strategy, digital advertising, MEO, content development, and vertical video creative direction. Strong capabilities in team management, cross-market reporting, and directing external agencies to deliver full-funnel integrated marketing outcomes. Relocated from Tokyo HQ to Honolulu in 2024 to lead the organizational transition between Japan and Hawaii and strengthen bilingual communication systems. Skilled at bridging diverse markets and building high-impact brand communication strategies.

Overview

9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Director of Integrated Marketing & PR

Vector USA / PacRim Marketing Group
Honolulu, USA
04.2024 - Current
  • Led the organizational transition between the Tokyo headquarters and the Hawaii office (approx. 15 employees).
  • Managed a PR and marketing team of six, overseeing workflow, quality, and performance.
  • Created proposals for new client acquisition and supported contract processes.
  • Oversaw client project management and directed annual marketing calendars for both Japanese and U.S. markets.
  • Planned and executed integrated marketing initiatives for major hospitality brands in Hawaii.
  • Built and improved PR infrastructure, including press releases, media relations, and approval flows.
  • Managed KPIs, PR performance, and advertising metrics across all accounts.
  • Directed external agencies and oversaw SOW development, vendor communication, and budget management.
  • Led vertical video production initiatives for owned media platforms.

Freelance Writer
Remote
01.2023 - Current
  • Produce an interview series for Watch LIFE News, a major Japanese luxury watch media outlet.
  • Contribute lifestyle and culture articles to magazines including Sweet and smart.

Integrated Marketing & PR Manager / Consultant

Vector Group / Antil
Tokyo, Japan
04.2019 - 03.2024
  • Developed integrated communication strategies to increase brand awareness and engagement for new and existing clients.
  • Managed a department of 11 members, optimizing resources and improving operational efficiency.
  • Led Japan-market communication strategies for global clients from Asia, Europe, and the U.S.
  • Oversaw end-to-end PR activities including media relations, influencer marketing, digital advertising, content creation, and event production.
  • Proposed strategic initiatives based on client challenges and contributed to strong project outcomes.
  • Assigned external specialists and managed communication planning from strategy through execution.
  • Planned and led major launch events for German and Korean brands entering the Japanese market, earning internal MVP recognition.
  • Contributed to new business acquisition and to long-term contract renewals and account expansion.

Japanese Language Teacher & Hospitality Worker

-
Sydney, Australia
04.2017 - 03.2018
  • Provided Japanese language instruction, supporting multicultural communication skills.
  • Worked in restaurant and bar hospitality roles, strengthening customer service capabilities.

Education

B.A. - International Relations, Politics & Economics

Meiji University
Tokyo

High School Diploma -

Sapporo Asahigaoka High School
Sapporo

Exchange Program

Holy Innocents' Episcopal School
Atlanta, GA

Skills

  • Integrated PR and marketing strategy
  • Cross-market communication
  • Media and influencer relations
  • Social media and content strategy
  • Content Creation & Creative Direction
  • Project and team management
  • Budget and SOW management
  • Proposal development
  • Bilingual communication
  • Creative thinking
  • Profit management

Certification

  • TOEIC 900
  • Japanese Driver’s License (AT)

Timeline

Director of Integrated Marketing & PR

Vector USA / PacRim Marketing Group
04.2024 - Current

Freelance Writer
01.2023 - Current

Integrated Marketing & PR Manager / Consultant

Vector Group / Antil
04.2019 - 03.2024

Japanese Language Teacher & Hospitality Worker

-
04.2017 - 03.2018

B.A. - International Relations, Politics & Economics

Meiji University

High School Diploma -

Sapporo Asahigaoka High School

Exchange Program

Holy Innocents' Episcopal School