Head of Supply Chain

Position: Head of Supply Chain
Location: Japan

We are seeking an experienced Head of Supply Chain to lead and optimize all supply chain functions within Japan. This is a high-impact leadership role reporting directly to the COO, with a dotted line to the Japan General Manager. The ideal candidate will bring a strategic, hands-on approach to driving operational efficiency, managing vendor partnerships, and leading a high-performing team across demand planning, logistics, and inventory management.

Key Responsibilities

1. Sales & Operations Planning (S&OP)

• Lead sales forecasting and demand planning processes for both finished goods and OEM products.

• Drive forecast accuracy by facilitating internal sales forecast meetings and aligning local plans with regional S&OP cycles.

• Submit accurate and timely purchase orders for finished goods and raw materials to relevant regional teams.

• Oversee inventory planning across multiple warehouse locations, ensuring optimal inventory levels and high accuracy.

• Maintain close collaboration with regional teams and mills to monitor KPIs such as Forecast Accuracy (FA), Delivery Accuracy (OTIF), Supply Accuracy (SA), and Days of Inventory (DOI).

• Host regular biweekly meetings to monitor production, shipments, and resolve outstanding issues.

2. 3PL & Logistics Management

• Evaluate and optimize the performance of logistics providers, including forwarders, trucking companies, and warehouse operators.

• Continuously improve the domestic distribution network to reduce delivery and warehousing costs.

• Lead annual procurement and tendering processes for 3PL vendors to ensure cost-efficiency and high service levels.

• Monitor vendor performance using predefined KPIs and adjust strategies as needed.

3. Process Optimization & Systems Integration

• Drive cross-functional alignment with Sales, Marketing, HR, and Finance teams to streamline internal processes.

• Ensure compliance with both internal and external operational guidelines.

• Leverage systems such as SAP and WMS to enhance overall efficiency and transparency across operations.

4. Team Leadership & Capability Building

• Provide strong leadership to the SCM team, fostering a culture of accountability, clarity, and continuous improvement.

• Define clear roles and responsibilities across the team, ensuring alignment with strategic goals.

• Deliver training and onboarding programs to develop talent and support professional growth.

• Build and execute long-term talent development plans to strengthen internal capabilities and improve stakeholder satisfaction.

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, or a related field.

• Experience: Minimum 15 years in supply chain management, with a successful track record in transformational environments.

• Expertise:

  • Strong command of end-to-end supply chain operations and logistics.

  • Demonstrated success leading S&OP and cross-functional initiatives.

  • Experience within the FMCG sector preferred.

• Leadership: Proven ability to manage multi-layered teams in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.

• Systems: Proficiency in Microsoft Office; hands-on experience with SAP and warehouse management systems.

• Languages: Fluent in both English and Japanese.

This role is ideal for a supply chain leader who thrives in complex, dynamic environments and is passionate about driving measurable operational improvements while developing people and systems.