Position Summary

Leads and develops Lord Japan supply chain and works closely with sales team, operations locations and Lord global/AP to drive premier customer experiences for profitable growth and cash flow improvement through providing functional expertise, guidance and service. Responsible for Lord Japan end to end supply chain management, including sourcing & procurement, planning and material management, customer service, logistics etc, Support APS & EPM global sourcing activities in Japan. The position will be responsible for embracing and driving lean enterprise systems throughout the supply chain.

Report to BU Manager, Lord Japan

Interact with all levels of Lord Japan management, including operational, technology, quality control, Sales/spaneting and finance.

Coordinate best practices with other regional and global supply chain managers.

Essential Functions:

• Manages the materials function within the country considering manufacturing capacity, schedules workloads, recommends in house manufacturing vs. outsourcing, quality control and workforce balance.
• Establishes and maintains premier customer service.
• Leads all Supply Chain Management activities within Lord Japan. This will include establishing preferred supplier selection criteria based on supplier evaluations of price, quality, delivery, certifications, compliance with governmental procurement regulations and group programs. Will establish and implement standard/automated re-order procedures. Will develop crisis management and supplier backup contingency programs.
• Negotiates long term contracts in coordination with regional/global staff and policies.
• Responsible for continuous improvements programs with suppliers.
• Responsible for managing the operational inventory to ensure adequate stocking levels for immediate production items and forecasting for future requirements. Will establish and implement standard/automated delivery procedures for just in time supplier stocking items.
• Responsible for facilitation of the S&OP Process.
• Accountable for managing the overall strategic production planning practices taking into consideration short term/long term production requirements and integrating materials availability.
• Will establish and implement procedures for special order request, technical changes and part substitutions, and sales spanet demand for products.
• Manage the transportation logistics to ensure distribution of products direct to customers, or through distribution centers / warehouses are completed with optimum service at the most efficient cost.
• Represents the supply chain at the country level.
• Provides leadership by promoting team concepts, coaching, counseling, retaining, mentoring, training, talent management, and individual development.
• Drives a culture of accountability and results through strategy deployment and effective performance management.

Qualifications

• 5+ year’s managerial experience in overall supply chain management.
• Bachelor degree in business, engineering, or materials management required with certification in supply chain management preferred.
• Possesses analytical and technical skills required to understand business practices and recommend proper automation opportunities.
• Must have advanced computer skills and be able to understand electronic data processing. Systems (IT) experience beneficial.
• Excellent written, verbal, and interpersonal, communication skills for effective interface with all internal and external contacts.
• Must be an innovator and embrace lean enterprise principles and practices. Practical experience in implementing lean technologies and practices.
• Excellent problem-solving skills
• Fluent Written, Verbal English skill
• Experience in chemical industry especially dangerous goods will be preferred.
• Fluent in Japanese and be resident in either Tokyo or Kofu