Assistant Manager Contract Logistics

Assistant Manager – Operations Location: Chiba, Japan Employment Type: Full-Time | On-Site Key Account: Major Global Fashion Retail Client About the Role Our customer is an omnichannel fulfilment arm of the worlds largest integrated container logistics company, providing integrated warehousing and transport management solutions across Asia. They operate as the logistics partner of choice for major local and multinational brands across Lifestyle, FMCG, Retail, and Technology sectors. With the rapid growth of e-commerce and cross-border trade, they manage major regional hubs and consolidation centres to optimise inventory flow and ensure responsiveness. This role is dedicated to managing a major global fashion retail account , operating within a high-volume, fast-paced distribution centre environment. Position Summary The Assistant Manager – Operations holds: Full responsibility for daily DC operational performance Cost control through demand planning and forecasting Leadership of supervisors and frontline operational teams Alignment with the DC Managers strategic direction and GMP targets This is a high-visibility operational leadership role managing a demanding, high-volume fashion retail account with significant seasonal fluctuation. Key Responsibilities Account Operations Leadership Lead operational teams including: Operations Supervisors System Superusers Inbound and Outbound Leaders Ensure strict adherence to customer KPIs and service-level agreements Stabilise and optimise operations during seasonal peaks (volume may increase 5–10x) Maintain daily accountability and operational rhythm Act as the key operational interface for the customer business Workflow & Performance Management Translate customer forecasts into structured daily operational plans Monitor productivity, throughput, labour utilisation and cost performance Maintain visibility of working hours and task-level productivity Ensure inventory accuracy and rapid resolution of operational issues Drive continuous improvement initiatives Collaborate closely with the DC Manager to achieve monthly GMP targets Critical Requirements (Must-Have) Experience Minimum 5 years experience in contract logistics or distribution centre operations Experience managing retail / fashion / FMCG warehouse accounts preferred Exposure to operational P&L management and commercial costing models Operational & Commercial Capability Strong analytical and strategic thinking ability Clear P&L awareness and cost control mindset KPI-driven and customer-focused Detail-oriented and proactive Systems & Tools Excel capability As a significant proportion of the warehouse staff are Chinese nationals: Ideally fluent in Mandarin Chinese and business English Able to communicate effectively with frontline warehouse teams Comfortable working in a multicultural operational environment Willing and motivated to learn Japanese to support long-term integration within the Japan organisation Japanese language fluency is advantageous; however, strong Chinese and English capability combined with strong communication skills and operational leadership experience is considered more valuable for this role.