Senior Manager - Supply Chain Management (Medical Device, Japan)

Position Overview:
We are seeking an accomplished supply chain leader to oversee our Japan operations for Logistics & Distribution, Customer Service, and Supply/Demand Planning. This strategic role is accountable for optimizing end-to-end supply chain performance to achieve key organizational objectives in profitability, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. The successful candidate will enhance our market position as a preferred supplier within the medical device industry.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership, coaching, and development for the Customer Service, Supply/Demand Planning, and Logistics & Distribution teams.

• Develop and execute the operational strategy, aligning it with broader business goals.

• Ensure robust compliance with Quality System requirements, including ISO 13485:2016.

• Champion a customer-centric culture across all operational functions, engaging both internal and external stakeholders.

• Drive talent development, succession planning, capability building, and high-caliber recruitment within the function.

• Manage, monitor, and achieve key performance indicators (KPIs) for Global Operations.

• Own the Logistics & Distribution budget, ensuring effective fiscal control against plans and forecasts.

• Lead and contribute to cost-saving initiatives and Cost Improvement Projects (CIP) to meet annual targets.

• Serve as an active and contributing member of the Japan Leadership Team.

Scope of Leadership:

• Customer Service Operations

• Logistics, Warehousing, and Distribution

• Supply & Demand Planning

• People Management & Team Development

• Japan Leadership Team Membership

Qualifications & Experience:
Essential:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field from an accredited institution.

• Minimum of 12 years of progressive leadership experience in Logistics, Distribution, and Customer Service, with a solid understanding of integrated Supply/Demand Planning.

• Proven experience developing and managing operational budgets on a regional/global scale.

• Demonstrated expertise in designing and implementing logistics strategies encompassing warehousing, distribution, supplier management, and import/export compliance; experience within the medical device or a highly regulated industry is strongly preferred.

• Strong track record in managing and negotiating with third-party logistics (3PL) service providers.

Desirable:

• Advanced degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., APICS CSCP).

• In-depth knowledge of the Japanese medical device market and regulatory landscape.