Head of Import/Export Operations Asia

Place of work: Saint-Barthélemy

Type of position: Permanent contract

Start date: September 1, 2024

Company Description

Our company specialises in the import/export of cosmetics, the sale of ready-to-wear clothing and strategic consulting. Based in St. Barts, we connect global trends to local markets with a unique St Barths twist. Our international and dynamic working environment promotes professional and personal development.

Main mission

The Asia Import/Export Operations Manager will oversee and manage all import and export operations for our company or our customers in Asian markets, mainly Japan and Korea, with desired exposure to a third Asian market. He/she will also manage projects for our customers wishing to produce in Asia.

Responsibilities

• Operations Management: Oversee and coordinate import/export processes to ensure efficiency and compliance with international regulations.

• Partnership Development: Establish and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, distributors and business partners in Asia.

• Market Analysis: Conduct market analysis to identify opportunities and challenges in the targeted markets (Japan, Korea, and another Asian market).

• Logistics and Supply Chain: Manage logistics and supply chain to ensure timely and efficient delivery of products.

• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that all operations comply with local and international trade and customs laws and regulations.

• Cost Optimization: Identify and implement strategies to optimize import and export costs.

• Cross-departmental coordination: Work closely with the General Manager to align business and operational strategies.

• Customer project management:

o Needs Assessment: Collaborate with customers to understand their specific production needs in Asia.

o Planning and organization: Develop detailed project plans, including timelines, budgets, and necessary resources.

o Supplier Selection: Identify and evaluate potential Asian suppliers for the production of customers' products.

o Production Supervision: Monitor production to ensure that it meets agreed quality standards and deadlines.
oCommunication with clients: Maintain regular communication with clients to keep them informed of project progress and manage expectations.

o Problem Solving: Address and resolve issues that arise during the production process to minimize disruption and ensure project success.

o Identification of development opportunities: Identify and evaluate development opportunities for our clients wishing to set up in Asia, providing strategic advice and operational support for their successful implementation.

o Implementation assistance: Assist clients in the implementation of their activities in Asia, including logistical, administrative and operational support.

o Event Organisation: Organise pop-up stores and events to promote our clients' activities, mainly in the fashion sector, in order to increase their visibility and presence in the Asian market.

Qualifications

• Professional experience: Minimum of 5 years of experience in managing import/export operations with significant exposure to at least two Asian markets, mainly Japan and Korea.

•Language skills: Fluency in Japanese and/or Korean. Knowledge of a third Asian language would be a plus. Level C1 in written and spoken English.

• Technical Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of Asian trade and customs regulations.

• Analytical Skills: Ability to conduct market analysis and develop data-driven business strategies.

• Interpersonal Skills: Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with a proven ability to build trusting relationships with business partners.

• Organizational skills: Strong ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet strict deadlines.

• Flexibility: Availability to travel regularly to Asia to meet with partners and oversee field operations.

Benefits

• Dynamic international work environment.

• Opportunities for professional development and growth within the company.

• Continuing education opportunities.

• Participation in innovative and strategic projects.