Import and Export Manager

Name of Role : Import and Export Manager Location: Tokyo, JapanEmployment Type: Full-time About The ClientOur client is an internationally recognised global luxury group with a prestigious portfolio of brands spanning fashion, leather goods, jewellery, eyewear, and beauty. The Group has a strong international presence and is well known for its commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, brand heritage, and exceptional customer experiences. As part of its continued growth in the Japanese market, the organisation is expanding its logistics team to strengthen supply chain and operational capabilities. The Japan business plays an important role in supporting the Group’s luxury brands and ensuring the efficient movement, storage, and distribution of high-value products.About the RoleThey are looking for an experienced Import & Export Manager to lead customs operations, trade compliance, broker and forwarder management, as well as logistics transformation initiatives.Key ResponsibilitiesImport & Export & Forwarding & Compliance Supervise all import and export customs operations for Japan. Ensure full compliance with customs regulations, trade requirements, and internal policies. Oversee customs brokers and manage operational performance. Support tariff classification, valuation, origin determination, and customs audits. Drive continuous improvement of customs procedures and compliance governance. Manage customs brokers, freight forwarders, and KPI monitoring. Team management & Operational Excellence Supervise daily team activities, workload allocation, and service performance. • Provide operational guidance and coaching. Support training and knowledge sharing activities.Project & Process Improvement Digital & AI initiatives Lead logistics-related projects including Customs import/ export operational stabilization. Support SAP implementation and logistics process integration. Define business requirements and coordinate with IT, vendors, and stakeholders. Participate in UAT, system validation, and process testing activities. Ensure project milestones and deliverables are achieved on schedule. Explore AI opportunities for customs inquiry management and product information retrieval.Leverage digital solutions to improve operational efficiency and reduce manual tasks.RequirementsMinimum 5 years of experience in customs, freight forwarding, or logistics operations. Strong knowledge of import/ export regulations, customs compliance. Proven experience managing customs brokers, freight forwarders, carriers, and logistics service providers. Experience in logistics projects and process improvement initiatives; SAP implementation, transportation optimization, or warehouse transition experience is a plus. Advanced proficiency in Microsoft tools (Excel mandatory; Power BI or data visualization tools is a plus) Business-level English and fluent Japanese.Strong stakeholder management skills with the ability to influence customs brokers, carriers, forwarders, and internal business partners. Excellent communication and coordination skills in a cross-functional and international environment. Strong understanding of compliance, risk management, and operational governance within customs and transportation activities. Analytical mindset with the ability to identify improvement opportunities through data analysis, KPI monitoring, and cost management. Proven ability to manage multiple priorities while balancing daily operations and project deliverables. Proactive and solution-oriented approach with a focus on operational efficiency and continuous improvement. Ability to lead logistics transformation initiatives, including system implementation, process optimization, and transportation network improvements.