Research Assistant jobs in United Kingdom

Job Description

Japanese-speaking Research Assistant – Food & Seafood Trade Support (Ref: IN46598)

A leading Japanese company in the food industry is seeking a Japanese-speaking Research Assistant to support its growing European operations. This role is ideal for a flexible and detail-oriented individual who thrives in a cross-cultural environment and has a deep interest in logistics, supply chains, and the food industry.

You will play a key role in preparing for trade shows, supporting communication between European teams and Japan headquarters, conducting market research, and coordinating international travel and meetings. If you’re proactive, culturally adaptable, and enjoy supporting global projects, we’d love to hear from you.

Employment & Conditions:

• Work Location: Remote (Europe-based), ideally UK and Poland
• Work Style: Full remote (occasional business travel required)
• Working Hours: 09:00–17:00 (flexibility available)
• Contract Type: Freelancer agreement with Japan HQ (1-year renewable)
• Employment contract may be possible after incorporation of European entity
• Start Date: Ideally August 2025
• Salary: ￡34k/ year including bonuses
• Remote Work: Full remote permitted

Main Responsibilities:

• Support preparation and participation in trade shows (approx. 40 days/year in Europe, 20 days/year in Japan), including internal meetings, exhibitions, and client visits
• Conduct market research on product volume, pricing, and supplier trends based on HQ requests (e.g., seafood harvest levels, sourcing conditions)
• Prepare internal reports and presentation materials
• Coordinate and streamline communication between the European team and Japan HQ
• Collect and organize internal data for analysis and sharing with relevant teams
• Support Japan HQ staff during business trips (scheduling, logistics, interpretation if needed)
• Assist in narrowing down suppliers based on sourcing volume and local research

Ideal Candidate:

• Based anywhere in Europe, preferably Poland or UK (main sourcing location)
• skills: Business level in English and Japanese, Polish
• At least 2 years of experience in logistics, food trading, or a related supply chain function
• Willing and able to travel frequently throughout Europe and to Japan
• Strong cultural understanding of Japanese business practices and communication styles
• Flexible, communicative, and able to work in a support-focused role
• Valid driver’s license

Applicants must be authorized to work in their country of residence as a freelancer.

Please include the job reference number (Ref:IN46598) at the top of your message.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted within two business days.

****We appreciate your understanding that individual feedback cannot be provided due to high application volume.