Sales Manager

A Japanese automotive parts manufacturing company specializing in precision metal stamping and safety components is looking for a Sales Manager.

Position Summary

This position supports the Vice President in developing and coordinating new business opportunities while maintaining strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and the parent company. The role serves as a key liaison between Japanese enterprises and management of a global automotive parts manufacturer.

This position also includes responsibility for leading and managing several Sales Representatives, contributing to team performance and overall sales success.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Vice President with the development and coordination of new business opportunities

• Build and maintain relationships with customers and suppliers to support business growth

• Coordinate new business opportunities through the manufacturing stage

• Prepare and present competitive pricing proposals while ensuring profitability goals are met

• Negotiate pricing and business opportunities with customers and suppliers

• Communicate with the parent company and offshore suppliers/customers, translating and conveying information for U.S. management as needed

• Coordinate sales and purchasing activities with domestic and offshore customers and vendors

• Develop project timelines and monitor progress to ensure successful launches

• Work with internal departments to support new product launch activities

• Prepare business forecasts and support cost analysis and pricing activities

• Provide timely updates regarding orders, schedule changes, and customer requirements

• Serve as a technical interpreter between Japanese enterprises and U.S. management

• Lead and manage Sales Representatives, providing guidance and oversight to achieve team objectives

• Travel to customer, supplier, and parent company locations as required (approximately 25%, primarily within the Midwest region)

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance, Economics, Engineering, or related field preferred, or equivalent experience

• Minimum two (2) years of experience in OEM automotive parts sales

• Bilingual in English and Japanese (Japanese at an expert / idiomatic level required)

• Strong communication, negotiation, and organizational skills

• Leadership capability with experience or potential to manage team members

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Excel, Word, etc.)

• Familiarity with CAD/CAM systems preferred

• Ability to read and interpret blueprints at a conceptual leve

Additional Information

• Approximately 25% travel, primarily within the Midwest region