Building on a strong legacy of almost 150 years, we are leading the way to reimagine and improve life every day. Today and for generations to come. Through our innovative and sustainable brands and technologies, across our teams around the world.
Henkel holds leading positions in both industrial and consumer businesses: Our portfolio includes well-known hair care products, laundry detergents, fabric softeners as well as adhesives, sealants, and functional coatings.
Country Logistics Manager Japan
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About this Position
This role leads end-to-end logistics operations in Japan, driving operational excellence, cost optimization, supply chain digitalization, and sustainability initiatives across warehousing, transportation, and import/export activities.
What you´ll do
- Lead end-to-end logistics operations in Japan, including warehousing, domestic transportation, import, and export activities
- Manage daily logistics operations to ensure the safe and efficient movement of goods and materials
Develop operational schedules, transportation methods, and distribution routes to optimize logistics performance - Analyze logistics costs and coordinate customs clearance procedures and permits
- Develop and implement warehousing and distribution processes in line with corporate standards to optimize resources and achieve volume targets
- Collaborate with shipping agencies and transportation providers to ensure smooth logistics operations
- Drive operational excellence across warehousing and transportation activities for all business units
- Optimize market logistics costs while maintaining agreed service level targets
- Lead and drive sustainability initiatives and logistics improvement projects at the local level
- Act as the key market representative for logistics purchasing agreements and local tender management
- Identify and leverage modern technologies such as robotics, IoT, and AI to improve efficiency, automation, and collaboration
- Monitor logistics performance and drive supply chain digitization through the use of KPIs, big data, and integrated systems
- Represent Henkel Logistics in local and international internal/external working groups and industry bodies
Develop operational schedules, transportation methods, and distribution routes to optimize logistics performance
What makes you a good fit
Must Have
- Bachelor’s degree or higher in Supply Chain, Operations, or a related field
- Minimum 10 years of relevant logistics or supply chain experience, including 3–5 years in a managerial role
- Strong knowledge of warehousing, transportation, import/export, and supplier management
- Experience with WMS/TMS systems and logistics operations management
- Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
- Fluent Japanese and English communication skills
- Ability to manage cross-functional stakeholders and drive operational improvements
Nice to Have
- Experience in project management
- Lean Six Sigma knowledge or certification
- Experience driving logistics digitalization and automation initiatives
- Exposure to sustainability-related logistics projects
- Experience in multinational or complex supply chain environments
Some perks of joining Henkel
- Flexible work scheme with flexible hours, hybrid work model, and work from anywhere policy for up to 30 days per year
- Diverse national and international growth opportunities
- Global wellbeing standards with health and preventive care programs
- Gender-neutral parental leave for a minimum of 8 weeks
- Employee Share Plan with voluntary investment and Henkel matching shares
- Retirement Pension Plan (Corporate DC and CB composition)
- Sick Leave
- Group Term Life Insurance
- Supplementary Workers' Accident Insurance
At Henkel, we come from a broad range of backgrounds, perspectives, and life experiences. We believe the uniqueness of all our employees is the power in us. Become part of the team and bring your uniqueness to us! We welcome all applications across different genders, origins, cultures, religions, sexual orientations, disabilities, and generations.
JOB ID: 26095385
Job Locations: Japan, Osaka-Fu, Minoh
Contact information for application-related questions: recruitment.jp@henkel.com
Please do not use this email address for sending your application or CV. To apply, please click on the "Apply for this role" button below. Applications sent via e-mail will not be accepted.
Application Deadline: As long as the vacancy is listed on our Career Site, we are happy to receive your application
Job-Center: If you have an application already, you can create or log in to your account here to check the status of your application. In case of new account creation, please use your email address that you applied with.
About Henkel
FAQ
I am interested in several jobs. Can I apply for multiple positions at the same time?
Yes – simply fill out your profile in our online application system. Once your online profile is complete, you can apply for multiple positions.
The job offer is written in English – should I write my application in English as well?
Yes, please. As Henkel is an international company you will be working with colleagues from all over the world and English is our official company language. Generally, the ‘rule’ is: please write the application in the same language as the job ad.
Do I get feedback during the application process about the state of my application?
Each position that we have open with Henkel is unique, and finding the right candidate is important for both the hired candidate as well as for Henkel. We want to make sure that both the candidate and the company are a good fit for each other. We will provide feedback to the candidates throughout the entire process.
Can employees move between business areas and/or to a different country?
Yes, in fact it is an expectation within Henkel that our talent is flexible and mobile. This helps to support the company on a broad, global level.
Our “Triple Two” philosophy promotes this expectation, by allowing you to work in at least two different roles, in two different business areas and two different countries. The reason behind this philosophy is that we believe working in different roles, business units and functions is good for your personal development and improves your understanding of Henkel as a global company.
Here you will get further information on our training programs.
Whom do I contact if I have questions concerning my application?
Our recruiting team will help you with all requests regarding your application. Contact the team here.