Airfreight Manager Japan

About the Company:

Our client is a global leader in supply chain solutions, specializing in air, ocean, and ground freight as well as contract logistics. With a strong commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction, they are known for their innovative approach to logistics and their ability to adapt to evolving market demands. Operating in over 160 countries, the company is well-positioned as a trusted partner for businesses worldwide.

Role Summary:

The Airfreight Manager Japan will take full ownership of the airfreight operations and business strategy within the country. Based initially in Tokyo, with a potential future relocation to Narita (NRT), this individual will be responsible for leading a high-performing team, driving business growth, and ensuring operational excellence. This role demands a proactive leader who can foster innovation, challenge the status quo, and take decisive action in complex situations.

Fluency in Japanese and English is mandatory.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership:

• Oversee the airfreight operations in Japan, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and alignment with the companys global standards.
• Develop and implement strategies to grow the airfreight business, leveraging market insights and aligning with customer needs.
• Drive innovation and continuous improvement within the airfreight function, proactively identifying opportunities to enhance processes.

People Management and Leadership:

• Lead and develop a high-performing team, fostering a collaborative and positive working culture.
• Objectively assess team talent, address performance issues, and create clear development plans for underperforming staff.
• Build trust and credibility within the team while maintaining the courage to challenge the status quo when needed.

Customer and Stakeholder Engagement:

• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders, including overseas offices, to ensure seamless operations and resolve challenges professionally.
• Act as a key point of contact for customers, ensuring high levels of satisfaction and fostering long-term relationships.
• Represent the Japan airfreight business in global forums, contributing to strategy discussions and sharing best practices.

Problem-Solving and Proactivity:

• Take a proactive approach to problem-solving, ensuring issues are addressed before they escalate.
• Develop and present innovative ideas and plans to enhance team performance and customer satisfaction.
• Cultivate a solution-oriented mindset within the team, promoting resilience and adaptability.

Key Qualifications

Experience and Knowledge:

• Strong background in airfreight operations, with proven experience in the Japanese freight forwarding market.
• Deep understanding of the Japanese market and global airfreight industry trends.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills, with a track record of managing and developing teams.

Skills and Competencies:

• Fluency in Japanese and English is mandatory.
• Strong people management skills, with the ability to objectively assess talent and make difficult but necessary personnel decisions.
• Proactive and solution-oriented, capable of addressing challenges with innovative approaches.
• Courage to challenge the status quo and navigate complex situations with professionalism.
• Hands-on approach to leadership, balancing strategic oversight with operational involvement.

Why Join?

This is an opportunity to take a pivotal leadership role in shaping the future of airfreight operations in Japan. By leveraging your market expertise and people management skills, you will make a lasting impact on the organization and its customers. If you are a proactive, strategic thinker with the ability to lead and inspire, this role offers a challenging and rewarding career path.

Ideally, again a person from a Japanese Freight Forwarder(Nippon Express, KWE, etc..) but if anyfrom large Foreign based FFW (DHL, Schenker, KN) will also be interested to look at.
Salary package in the range of 11M -13MJPY + incentives.