Position Title: Strategic Buyer – Direct Materials
Location: Sagamihara, Japan
Department: Procurement
Employment Type: Full-time
Language Requirements: Business-level Japanese and English
About the Role
A global life sciences company is seeking a Strategic Buyer to join its procurement team at the Sagamihara site. This role will be responsible for managing the full procurement process for direct materials, supporting local and global initiatives, and contributing to procurement governance activities in Japan.
Reporting to the Japan Procurement Manager, this role may also include responsibilities in cross-functional or international projects, involving both direct and indirect procurement tasks depending on evolving business priorities.
Key Responsibilities
1. Direct Material Procurement
Issue and manage purchase orders using SAP
Evaluate supplier quotations and conduct cost negotiations
Lead cost-reduction initiatives and analysis
Maintain supplier relationships and performance
Manage daily procurement operations and maintain accurate documentation
2. Support Global Procurement Projects
Contribute to global process improvement initiatives and optimization efforts
Participate in system enhancement projects and cross-border collaboration
3. Procurement Governance (Japan)
Manage contract records, support audits, and oversee vendor compliance
Support environmental and regulatory compliance in procurement processes
Note: The scope may include indirect procurement as well. Participation in projects and contributions to performance will be considered in annual evaluations.
Required Qualifications
Minimum 5 years of experience in procurement or purchasing operations
(Team member-level experience is acceptable; leadership experience is a plus)Business-level proficiency in English (Fluent communication not required, but working-level ability is essential)
Business-level proficiency in Japanese
Preferred Skills
Familiarity with procurement systems, especially SAP
Advanced Microsoft Excel capabilities (pivot tables, formula-based analysis, etc.)
Experience in cross-departmental or cross-functional projects
Knowledge of procurement processes in raw materials for industries like food or chemicals
Ideal Candidate Profile
Proactive and capable of working independently
Strong skills in cost analysis and commercial decision-making
Excellent communication and interpersonal collaboration across departments
Comfortable working in a globally connected team environment
Why Join?
This is a meaningful opportunity to contribute to global health and well-being through a role that blends operational purchasing with strategic initiatives. The organization promotes a purpose-driven culture, values ethics and sustainability, and supports employees’ personal and professional development