Quality Assurance Specialist
Location: Tokyo, Japan
About the Role
This position oversees product quality and safety, warehouse assessments, and continuous improvement activities with external logistics partners. You will ensure that inspection standards and quality controls are consistently followed, while analyzing defect trends, reporting results, and collaborating closely with internal and external stakeholders to resolve issues and elevate performance.
This role contributes to operational goals through structured reporting, proactive communication, and cross-functional alignment. Strong knowledge of quality principles, robust organizational skills, and the ability to manage priorities are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Quality Control Execution
Manage verification processes for new product launches in the Japan market.
Maintain and enhance standardized product inspection procedures.
Train third-party logistics (3PL) teams to ensure compliant execution of inspection protocols.
Confirm all products meet required quality expectations prior to distribution.
Collaborate with global and regional quality and operations teams to resolve issues identified through inspections or market feedback.
Ensure compliance with local regulations and applicable industry standards.
Analysis, Reporting & Continuous Improvement
Evaluate product defect data and inspection outcomes to identify and implement improvements together with manufacturing quality teams.
Maintain accurate records and documentation of quality activities.
Prepare and deliver reports on inspection results and improvement actions to management.
Generate and validate monthly destruction reports, including inventory and financial reconciliation with relevant departments.
Confirm proper execution of physical destruction activities when required.
Third-Party Logistics Partner Oversight
Guide 3PL warehouse teams on quality requirements, safety, and compliance standards.
Conduct monthly on-site warehouse visits, reporting findings and establishing corrective actions to reduce waste and destruction rates.
Partner Company Product Distribution Quality
Coordinate quality and inspection activities with partner organizations to ensure their standards are consistently met.
Participate in customer-facing discussions when required.
Produce defect analyses and reporting for partner companies.
Manage destruction reporting and reconciliation processes with partner stakeholders and finance.
Confirm destruction processes are carried out accurately and securely.
Complaint & Claim Handling
Review product quality complaints, investigate root causes, and support corrective action plans.
Serve as the local coordinator for product returns: validate claims, document investigations, and identify trends for prevention.
Arrange replacement of damaged components when necessary (e.g., packaging materials).
Ensure destruction processes comply with anti-counterfeit protocols.
Additional Responsibilities
Support product data reporting and other regional quality-related tasks as needed.
Provide reports and visit documentation, ensuring timely closure of identified issues.
Assist with internal recall procedures when required.
Act as a key communication link between corporate teams and local operations.
Perform additional duties as assigned.
Use SAP and office software tools when required for reporting and documentation.
Required Qualifications
Bachelor’s degree in Food Science, Chemistry, Biology, or a related scientific discipline.
Minimum 6 years of quality-related experience in food, beverages, packaging, or consumer goods.
Strong communication, organization, and analytical problem-solving skills.
Ability to work independently and collaboratively.
High attention to detail with strong documentation skills.
Business-level fluency in both Japanese and English (spoken and written).
Experience using SAP and standard business software.
Understanding of production processes and quality control in alcoholic beverage or related industries.
Planning and project management capabilities.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience with ISO 9001, ISO 22000, or GFSI quality management systems.
Work Environment & Culture
We foster a collaborative environment that encourages professional and personal development, innovation, and ownership. Teamwork and continuous improvement are central to how we operate, and we strive to ensure that every employee can contribute their best.
Compensation & Benefits
We provide a competitive total rewards package designed to support long-term growth and performance, along with benefits that reflect our values and support the diverse needs of our employees.
Equal Opportunity
We are committed to creating and maintaining an inclusive workplace where all individuals have equal access to opportunities regardless of background, personal characteristics, or legally protected status.