Sales Manager

Our client is a global Tier 1 Automotive supplier with HQ in North America. They are present in over 25 countries globally and have a long history in Japan.

The Japan office includes various nationalities and offers an international working environment. In addition, the office system is more flexible than other Tier 1 suppliers; work from home is possible.

They are seeking to hire a Sales Manager:

Overview
Our client is seeking a dynamic Sales Manager to strengthen its presence with Japan OEM customers. The role will focus primarily on business development (70%) with new and targeted accounts, while also managing relationships and sales activities with existing customers (30%).

Key Responsibilities

• Proactively build and develop strong relationships with Japan OEM customers 

• Drive business development activities: identify opportunities, secure RFIs/RFQs, and promote the full sales process to win new business.

• Manage and maintain relationships with existing customers, ensuring high service levels and ongoing revenue stability.

• Partner closely with internal departments (engineering, program management, quality, etc.) to align on customer requirements and deliver winning solutions.

• Collaborate cross-functionally to open new doors and gradually expand market share over time.

• Prepare proposals, conduct pricing discussions, and support contract negotiations.

• Provide accurate sales forecasts and contribute to strategic account planning.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years Automotive Tier 1 sales industry experience (MUST).

• Proven experience in new business development to JOEMs (MUST). (If only `existing sales` management experience, this will not match)

• Experience with sales of electronic components or Tier-1 supplier business.

• Strong communication and negotiation skills with the ability to serve as the JOEM window.

• Problem-solving skills, with ability to coordinate across departments to resolve technical, quality, or delivery issues.

• Native level Japanese skills / Business-level English (intermediate or above).

• Japanese driver’s license.

Ideal Candidate

• A proactive, self-driven sales professional who thrives on building long-term OEM relationships and winning new business under competitive circumstances.
• Someone who combines strategic thinking with a hands-on approach, able to balance immediate sales results with long-term growth.