About Company
Hitachi, Ltd., a global leader in diverse sectors including IT, Energy, Industry, Mobility, and Smart Life, has been at the forefront of innovation for over a century. With a rich history rooted in manufacturing excellence, Hitachi is committed to addressing societal challenges through its Social Innovation Business. Our extensive manufacturing operations across Japan and worldwide produce high-quality industrial components, systems, and solutions that power critical infrastructure and support daily life. Joining Hitachi means becoming part of a forward-thinking organization dedicated to creating a sustainable future through advanced technology and collaborative efforts. We value diversity, creativity, and a proactive approach to problem-solving, fostering an environment where every employee can contribute to our collective success and global impact.
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Job Description
We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Procurement Officer to join our dynamic manufacturing division in Tokyo, Japan. In this pivotal role, you will be instrumental in optimizing our supply chain and ensuring the efficient acquisition of materials, components, and services critical to our production processes. The ideal candidate will possess a strong understanding of manufacturing procurement, excellent negotiation skills, and a strategic mindset to drive cost savings while maintaining high standards of quality and reliability. You will manage supplier relationships, identify new sourcing opportunities, mitigate supply chain risks, and contribute directly to our operational excellence and competitive advantage. This position offers a unique opportunity to shape procurement strategies within a global enterprise, working with cutting-edge technologies and a diverse team dedicated to innovation. You will be responsible for ensuring a robust and resilient supply chain that underpins Hitachi’s commitment to delivering world-class products and solutions. Your expertise will directly influence our manufacturing efficiency, product quality, and market competitiveness, making a tangible impact on our business outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
- Develop and implement strategic sourcing initiatives for direct and indirect materials, components, and services required for manufacturing operations.
- Conduct thorough market research and analysis to identify potential suppliers, assess capabilities, and foster strong, long-term supplier relationships.
- Lead complex negotiations on pricing, contract terms, and delivery schedules to achieve optimal value and quality while ensuring compliance with legal and ethical standards.
- Manage and evaluate supplier performance, conduct regular business reviews, and implement continuous improvement programs to enhance supply chain efficiency.
- Collaborate closely with engineering, production planning, quality assurance, and other cross-functional teams to ensure material specifications and delivery requirements are consistently met.
- Monitor inventory levels and work proactively with production planning to ensure timely material availability, minimizing excess stock and avoiding production delays.
- Identify and mitigate potential supply chain risks, including geopolitical, economic, and operational disruptions, developing contingency plans as needed.
- Ensure strict compliance with company procurement policies, ethical standards, and relevant local and international regulatory requirements.
- Utilize advanced ERP systems and procurement tools for efficient process management, data analysis, and comprehensive reporting to stakeholders.
Required Skills
- Proven experience (3+ years) as a Procurement Officer or similar role, preferably within the manufacturing or heavy industry sector.
- Demonstrated strong negotiation and contract management skills with a track record of achieving favorable terms.
- Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
- Proficiency in procurement software and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle).
- Native-level Japanese language proficiency (written and spoken) and business-level English proficiency for international communication.
- Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Engineering, or a closely related field.
Preferred Qualifications
- Master's degree in a relevant field or professional certification (e.g., CIPS – Chartered Institute of Procurement & Supply).
- Experience with global sourcing strategies and international logistics.
- Familiarity with Lean Manufacturing principles and Kaizen methodologies.
- Project management experience in supply chain optimization initiatives.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package with performance-based bonuses and annual salary review.
- Comprehensive social insurance (health, pension, employment, workers' accident compensation) as per Japanese regulations.
- Generous paid time off, including annual leave, special leave, and parental leave provisions.
- Commuting allowance, housing support, and other employee welfare programs.
- Extensive opportunities for continuous professional development, training, and career advancement within a global organization.
- Access to cutting-edge technology and participation in innovative projects.
- A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment in a multinational setting.
How to Apply
Interested candidates are invited to submit their detailed resume (CV) and a compelling cover letter outlining their qualifications and experience through our official career portal. Please ensure your application highlights your relevant experience in manufacturing procurement and your proficiency in both Japanese and English. Only applications submitted via the link will be considered.
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