VICE MANAGING DIRECTOR

Job Description

Operational Support

• Assist the MD in overseeing day-to-day operations across departments (production, logistics, quality control, etc.).
• Ensure that production targets, quality standards, and safety protocols are met.
• Coordinate with department heads to resolve operational issues promptly.

Strategic Implementation

• Translate the MD’s strategic vision into actionable plans and monitor execution.
• Lead special projects or initiatives (e.g., factory expansion, automation, sustainability programs).
• Analyze performance data and recommend improvements.
• Develop and implement long-term business strategies for growth and sustainability.
• Identify new market opportunities and drive innovation in product development.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise senior managers and ensure interdepartmental coordination.
• Mentor and develop leadership talent within the organization.
• Lead and motivate senior managers and department heads (production, quality, logistics, HR).
• Step in to lead meetings or represent the MD when needed.

Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Monitor compliance with regulatory standards (e.g., food safety, environmental laws).
• Ensure adherence to industry standards (e.g., ISO, HACCP, GMP).
• Support the implementation of certification programs (e.g., ISO, RSPO).

Financial Oversight

• Assist in budget planning and execution.
• Review financial reports and operational KPIs with the MD.
• Identify areas for cost optimization and efficiency gains.
• Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial reports.
• Monitor cost control, profitability, and return on investment (ROI).
• Approve major expenditures and investments in equipment or technology.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Liaise with suppliers, customers, and regulatory bodies on behalf of the MD.
• Represent the company in industry events or negotiations when delegated.
• Handle internal and external communications as needed.

Requirements

• Minimum Bachelor’s Degree in Economics / Finance / Business Administration / Management or related discipline.
• Minimum of 8 years of progressive leadership experience as a senior management roles within an edible oil and fats industry.
• Proficient in spoken and written Japanese (at least JLPT N1 level) as the role requires communication with Japan HQ and translation of Japanese documents to English and vice versa (Business level).
• Familiar with Japanese corporate culture.
• Proven track record in overseeing operations, managing cross-functional teams, and implementing strategic initiatives.
• Experience in managing factory operations, quality control systems, and compliance standards such as ISO, HACCP, GMP, or RSPO is an advantage.
• Strong knowledge of production, logistics, and quality assurance processes.
• Demonstrated ability to translate strategic vision into operational execution.
• Proficient in analyzing performance data, preparing budgets, and managing KPIs.
• Experience in leading projects such as factory expansion, automation, or sustainability programs.
• Excellent leadership, team development, and interdepartmental coordination skills.
• Ability to mentor and develop senior managers across functions.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving capabilities under pressure.
• Effective communicator with experience in representing senior management in internal and external settings.
• Familiarity with regulatory requirements in manufacturing or food production environments.
• Understanding of certification programs and quality systems (ISO, HACCP, RSPO, etc.).
• Experience in budget planning, cost control, and financial reporting.
• Ability to interpret financial reports and provide strategic recommendations on ROI, investment, and operational efficiency.
• Ability to travel domestically or internationally is needed.