About the Role
This position serves as a critical bridge between Axis and our distributors, optimizing inventory management and logistical/operational processes to drive sustainable sales growth. Due to our continued growth and success in the Japan market, we have a newly created position open for a Distribution Operations Account Manager. In this role, you will be responsible for managing distribution operations relations and developing effective inventory strategies to support APAC’s aggressive growth targets within the distribution channel. You will manage and develop processes that align with our APAC Supply Chain Model and growth strategy. This position requires close, cross-functional collaboration with Supply and Demand Planning, Fulfillment Operations, Distribution Account Managers, Partner Marketing, and the Axis Sales teams.
Responsibilities
- Establish and maintain strong, collaborative relationships within our established distributor network, including Operations Teams, key field sales Axis advocates, and management teams.
- Monitor and maintain accurate inventory levels by conducting regular distributor meetings, reconciling discrepancies, and implementing effective inventory control measures.
- Collaborate with distributor procurement and sales teams on forecasting to minimize stockouts and prevent overstocking.
- Provide strategic planning for new product rollovers and transitions to mitigate the risk of discontinued product stock.
- Manage stock rotations to maximize stocking efficiencies with distributors and apply best practices in compliance with Axis ways of working.
- Work closely with the Axis distribution team to maintain a holistic view and ensure effective channel inventory levels across the Japan region.
- Analyze performance metrics, such as inventory turnover, and provide run-rate forecasts.
- Generate and maintain distribution sales dashboards, consolidated stock reports, and uPOS (micro-POS) discrepancy updates.
- Utilize systematic reporting tools and reports to analytically manage daily responsibilities.
- Drive healthier strategic alignment and increased transparency to strengthen supply chain and operations management with distribution partners.
- Lead strategic operational initiatives with distribution partners in partnership with the Distribution Account Management team.
- Collaborate with SCM, Supply, and Demand Planning to establish/maintain processes for strategic product forecasting.
- Act as an ambassador for digital transformation (DX) initiatives with our distribution partners.
Requirements
- Japanese: Native level or JLPT N1 certification required.
- English: TOEIC L&R score of 730 or above is strongly preferred.
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, Commerce, Operations, Supply Chain, or a related field.
- Minimum of 5 years of professional working experience in a relevant field.
- Prior experience in sales operations, sales enablement, SCM, or procurement within a distribution-centric business model is highly preferred.
- Professional experience within the Technology/Hardware or High-Tech manufacturing industries is a strong advantage.
- Experience partnering with businesses on an international level with strong cultural awareness.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to develop strong internal and external relationships.
- Ability to navigate complex operational issues and find win-win solutions.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint; familiarity with Salesforce and BI tools (such as QlikSense or Tableau) is highly preferred.
- Strong organizational and multi-tasking skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities effectively (both verbal and written).
- Competency in delivering effective presentations to stakeholders at all levels, including Axis corporate management.
- High levels of self-initiative, self-motivation, and a customer-oriented mindset.
- A driven team player who acts as an ambassador of our Core Values.
Skills
- Microsoft Excel
- Microsoft PowerPoint
- Salesforce
- BI tools (QlikSense or Tableau)
Location
- Tokyo, Japan
Work Type
- Hybrid working
- Permanent Employment
Experience Level
- Minimum of 5 years of professional working experience
Education Level
- Bachelor’s degree
Benefits
- Career Development & Growth Opportunities
- Broad Business Exposure
- Global & Regional Collaboration
- Strategic Leadership
- Work-Life Balance
- Hybrid Working
- Comprehensive Support
- Mental health support
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
About the Company
- We believe in building long-term relationships and we will support you to flourish in your role in a truly global company.
- We enable a smarter, safer world by creating innovative solutions for improving security and business performance. As a network technology company and industry leader, we offer solutions in video surveillance, access control, intercom, and audio systems, enhanced by intelligent analytics applications.
- With around 6000 committed employees in over 50 countries, we collaborate with partners worldwide. Together, we thrive in our friendly, open, and collaborative culture and inspire each other to think beyond the expected. United by our commitment to inclusion, diversity, and sustainability, we consistently seek to develop our skills and way of working.
- Work for a fast-growing international company and market leader in network video, operating independently with the strong financial backing of the Canon Group.
- Axis is proud to be a "Great Place to Work" certified company, fostering an inclusive, warm, and collaborative culture.
