General Manager

Nippon Express; Singapore; On-site; SGD 150,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics company is seeking a senior-level individual in Singapore to drive strategic growth for their freight forwarding business in the Japanese market. This role entails developing sales strategies, managing key relationships, and mentoring a high-performance sales team. The ideal candidate requires significant experience in logistics sales, proven leadership skills, and the ability to execute strategic visions effectively.

Qualifications

• Minimum 10-15 years of experience in Freight Forwarding / Logistics Sales.
• At least 5 years in a senior leadership or General Manager capacity.
• Proficiency in English for high-level negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute the three-to-five-year strategic sales plan.
• Accountable for achieving sales targets and P&L objectives.
• Lead the acquisition and management of strategic accounts.
• Recruit, train, and mentor sales leaders.

Skills

Strategic sales planning

Market analysis

Team leadership

Negotiation skills

Effective communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing

Job description

This senior-level position requires an individual with extensive experience and proven leadership to drive significant strategic growth for the company's freight forwarding business in the Japanese market. The role involves setting and executing the sales strategy, managing high-value relationships, and mentoring a high-performance sales team.

RESPONSIBILITIES

I. Strategic Leadership and Business Development

• Develop and Execute Sales Strategy: Formulate and implement the three-to-five-year strategic sales plan for all freight forwarding services (Air, Ocean, Road, and Specialized Logistics), ensuring alignment with global corporate objectives and local market dynamics.
• Drive Revenue Growth and Profitability: Be ultimately accountable for achieving and exceeding sales targets and P&L objectives, focusing on high-yield and complex logistics solutions.
• Market Positioning and Analysis: Conduct market research, competitor analysis, and demand forecasting to identify new opportunities, emerging trends, and areas for strategic investment within the Japanese logistics landscape.
• High-Value Account Acquisition: Personally lead the acquisition and management of strategic accounts (key global and Japanese corporations), negotiating complex contracts and developing customized, long-term supply chain partnerships.

II. Team Management and Organizational Development

• Lead the Sales Organization: Oversee and manage the performance of all local sales and Japanese team.
• Talent Development and Mentorship: Recruit, train, and mentor the next generation of sales leaders, implementing performance management and continuous professional development programs.
• Operational Alignment: Work closely with the Operations, Pricing, and Finance departments to ensure sales commitments are operationally executable, financially viable, and meet customer service level agreements (SLAs).
• Reporting and Compliance: Provide regular reports on sales performance, market conditions, and strategic initiatives. Ensure all sales activities adhere to local regulatory and ethical compliance standards.

III. Global and Internal Collaboration

1. Global Network Integration: Act as the key liaison between the overseas entity and the company's global network, driving collaborative sales efforts for multi-national accounts and inbound/outbound traffic.
2. Cross-Functional Strategy: Initiate and lead projects with IT and Product Development teams to enhance digital freight solutions and introduce new, innovative service offerings tailored for the Japanese market.
3. Brand and Relationship Management: Represent the company at high-profile industry events, chambers of commerce, and with key government agencies, enhancing the company’s brand reputation and market credibility.

Key Requirements

• Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing or equivalent practical experience is required.
• Experience: Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive experience in Freight Forwarding / Logistics Sales, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership or General Manager capacity overseeing major operations.
• Strategic Capability: Proven ability to translate strategic vision into tactical execution and profitable business results.
• Language: Proficiency in English to conduct high-level negotiations and internal reporting. Clear and effective communication between the teams.
• Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of international trade, customs regulations, Incoterms, and the specific logistics challenges of major Japanese industries.