Position
Manager, Demand Planning & Production
Reports to
Senior Manager, Manufacturing Operations
Employment Type
Full-time, Permanent
Working Hours
8:30 AM – 5:30 PM (1-hour break)
Holidays
Weekends (Saturday & Sunday), Public holidays, and New Year holidays
Salary
Approx. JPY 8 million per year (depending on experience and background)
Benefits
Retirement allowance, standard social insurance, and other company benefits
Location
Manufacturing Center in Kawasaki, with regular weekly meetings at the Tokyo office
Headcount
1 (Replacement role)
Background and Purpose
This position has been created to strengthen the production planning and demand forecasting function within the manufacturing operations. The manager will play a key role in improving production accuracy and optimizing parts inventory management aligned with global business strategies.
Job Overview
The role is responsible for overseeing production planning and demand forecasting for golf-related equipment (or comparable precision manufacturing). The manager will coordinate between production, purchasing, and sales functions to ensure seamless execution of manufacturing and inventory control processes.
Key Responsibilities
Production Scheduling
Manage and optimize production schedules to meet market demand across mass production, custom, and direct-to-consumer channels.Parts Procurement and Inventory Control
Develop purchasing plans for production components, monitor stock levels, and prepare regular inventory and procurement reports for global headquarters.Forecasting and Reporting
Analyze production outcomes against forecasts, assess supply conditions, and lead cross-functional meetings to determine corrective actions and ensure execution.Product Launch Support
Collaborate with relevant departments to ensure timely and efficient product launches, confirming readiness of all supply chain elements.Team Management
Supervise and develop two members within the production control team, including goal setting and performance evaluation.Systems and Tools
Utilize production management systems and Microsoft Office tools (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) for planning, reporting, and coordination.
Required Experience and Skills
Minimum 5 years of experience in production management, planning, or procurement operations
Strong understanding of production systems and demand forecasting
Proven ability to manage inventory, procurement, and supply chain processes
Experience managing small teams, including evaluations and performance tracking
Business-level English (for calls, web conferences, written reports) and native-level Japanese
Strong communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools
Preferred Experience and Skills
Experience using SAP or similar ERP systems
Background in the sports or consumer goods industry
Experience in high-precision manufacturing or assembly environments
Education
Bachelor’s degree or higher
Languages
Japanese: Native level
English: Business communication level
Career Opportunities
This position offers the opportunity to work in a global business environment, collaborating with international headquarters and cross-functional teams. The successful candidate may develop into broader operational or leadership roles within production management or related corporate functions.