The Factory Manager - Japanese Speaker role is responsible for leading overall factory operations across production, quality, inventory, and delivery performance. The position combines strategic production management, continuous improvement, cross-functional coordination, and team development to achieve safety, quality, cost, delivery, and productivity objectives.
Responsibilities
Lead and manage overall factory operations, including production, production control, quality, inventory, and delivery performance
Ensure manufacturing activities achieve targets for Safety, Quality, Cost, Delivery, and Productivity (SQCDP)
Develop and execute production plans to meet customer requirements and business objectives
Monitor factory performance and implement improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, quality, and operational efficiency
Analyse production data, identify the root causes of operational issues, and implement corrective and preventive actions
Drive continuous improvement activities, including Kaizen, 5S, waste reduction, and process optimisation
Collaborate with Engineering, Procurement, Quality Assurance, Logistics, and other departments to support smooth operations
Manage and develop factory personnel through coaching, training, performance management, and succession planning
Ensure compliance with company policies, safety standards, and relevant manufacturing regulations
Communicate and report factory performance, challenges, and improvement plans to Japanese-speaking management and stakeholders
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing Engineering, or a related field
Minimum 10 years of experience in manufacturing operations
At least 5 years of experience in a senior management position such as factory manager, plant manager, production manager, or operations manager
Experience working within a Japanese manufacturing company is highly preferred
Experience managing both made-to-order and mass-production environments will be an advantage
Japanese language proficiency at JLPT N3 level or higher
Good command of English
Preferred qualification:
Master’s degree
About the company
A Japanese company in the manufacturing industry, producing industrial equipment and components for automation, control, and other specialised applications. The organisation combines manufacturing capabilities with technical expertise to support a range of industrial operations.