About this role
Role Summary As part of the localization of the Global Warehouse operation in Japan, we are establishing a new warehouse organization in Sachiura. The Assistant Manager will lead the overall warehouse operation and establish a stable organization from the outset. The role encompasses overall operational management, customer communication, people management, KPI management, inventory, safety, quality, and continuous improvement.
Key Responsibilities
• Manage the overall Global Warehouse operation. • Serve as the primary operational point of contact for the customer. • Lead and develop the Supervisors and warehouse team. • Manage daily inbound, outbound, and inventory operations. • Manage manpower planning and resource allocation. • Monitor KPIs, productivity, inventory accuracy, and service performance. • Ensure compliance with Maersk and customer safety and quality requirements. • Establish and maintain SOPs and operational processes. • Manage operational issues, root cause analyses, and corrective actions. • Coordinate with HSSE, Quality, Account Management, IT, and other relevant functions. • Support customer audits, stocktakes, and operational reviews. • Drive continuous improvement and operational stabilization. • Provide regular operational updates and reports to relevant stakeholders.
Requirements
• Extensive experience in warehouse or logistics operations. • Experience in a warehouse leadership or management position. • Strong understanding of inbound, outbound, and inventory management. • Experience in people management. • Strong customer and stakeholder management skills. • Experience with SAP or a WMS is preferred. • Experience in a new warehouse start-up is an advantage. • A forklift license and practical forklift operating experience are an advantage. • Strong communication skills in Japanese and English. • A strong sense of ownership and a problem-solving mindset.
Pre-Go-Live Training The new operation is scheduled to commence in February 2027. The Assistant Manager is expected to join before go-live and work in our existing warehouse operation. The purpose is to gain a hands-on understanding of the current customer operation, systems, safety requirements, and working standards before assuming responsibility for the new organization. The Assistant Manager is expected to be ready to take ownership of the new operation from day one.
Why This Role This role extends beyond managing an established warehouse operation. You will be a key member in establishing the Global Warehouse operation in Japan from the outset, with the opportunity to build the team, operational structure, and working standards in collaboration with the customer and Maersk. You will work with both local and global stakeholders and take ownership of the operation from start-up through stabilization and future development. For someone seeking to take the next step in warehouse management and gain experience in establishing a new operation within an international environment, this is a unique opportunity.
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