Key Duties

What are the key responsibilities of the role?

1.     Demand Forecasting and Purchasing Planning

·       Develop and implement a robust demand planning process, utilizing sales trends and market intelligence, to generate accurate demand forecasts.

·       Based on these demand forecasts, develop and execute purchasing plans to ensure timely procurement.

·       Optimize inventory levels to prevent both overstock and stockouts.

2.     Purchase Order Creation and Management

·       Create and update all purchase orders accurately and on time.

·       Monitor and manage open purchase orders and in-transit shipments to ensure full visibility and timely delivery.

·       Follow up on order progress, lead times, and resolve issues when necessary.

3.     Timely COGS Updates and Management

·       Update cost elements such as raw material, import, and logistics costs promptly and accurately

·       Monitor and communicate changes in supplier pricing, exchange rates, and tariffs.

·       Analyze COGS variances and identify root causes for discrepancies.

·       Collaborate with relevant departments (e.g., Accounting) to ensure accurate cost allocation and reporting.

·       Propose and implement initiatives to mitigate cost increases and achieve COGS optimization.

4.     Supplier Management

·       Maintain strong relationships and daily communication with key suppliers.

·       Ensure logistics operations comply with the company’s policies, BRCGS Agents and Brokers Standard, and applicable regulatory requirements by managing the safe, legal, and traceable importation of products.

·       Lead price and contract negotiations with suppliers to achieve favorable terms.

·       Identify and evaluate potential new suppliers to broaden the supply base and mitigate risks..

5.     Inventory and O2C Collaboration

·       Work closely with the O2C team to ensure real-time visibility and accurate management of inbound and outbound inventory.

·       Continuously monitor and maintain up-to-date inventory levels and inventory days.

·       Generate regular inventory visibility and tracking reports.

6.     SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) Development and Updates

·       Create and document SOPs for purchasing and inventory management.

·       Review and update procedures periodically to ensure continuous improvement.

7.     NPD (New Product Development) Support

·       Collect supplier and cost information required for new product development.

·       Research and engage potential new suppliers.

8.     Other Duties as Assigned

·       Propose initiatives to improve supply chain and operational efficiency.

·       Handle additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor.

·       5+ years of experience in international purchasing or procurement (seafood industry experience preferred).

·       Bachelor’s degree (preferably in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Business).

·       Proficiency with ERP systems and spreadsheets (Google Sheets) for purchasing and inventory management.

·       Strong analytical skills (demand forecasting, cost analysis, inventory days, and COGS monitoring).

·       Food industry experience.

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills

·       Business-level proficiency in Japanese for communication with suppliers

·       Ability to collaborate with multiple departments to execute tasks with high accuracy and efficiency.

·       A proactive, problem-solving mindset with readiness to tackle challenges.