Job Summary:

The Logistics Specialist is responsible for all of Logistics related activities in Kinuura facility (Chita, Aichi-prefecture) of Lubrizol Japan as well as outside warehouses, storage yards and various locations wherever Lubrizol products are transported and stored upon importation, exportation and domestic delivery for all LZA (Lubrizol Additives) and LZAM (Lubrizol Advanced Materials) products.

This role mainly focuses on streamlining processes related to logistics from product import to customer delivery, includes practical initiatives and supervision regarding monthly data and cost validation, contract terms and conditions, operational scope of works, CI (continuous improvements) activities and HSE&S related compliance for the on-site 3PL (3rd Party Logistics), contracted freight forwarders, warehouse operators, transportation companies and outsourced tollers.

The Logistics Specialist also responsible for entire Logistics processes meeting or exceeding targeted levels of customer satisfaction, delivery, quality and cost performance, in which the role require timely action and coordination with internal and external stake holders such as Global and Regional Logistics, CX (Customer Experience), Planning, Commercial Team stakeholders as well as shipping companies, freight forwarders, customs office, transportation companies and any other parties upon business requirements.

 

Responsibilities:

Manage Logistics Operation activities with 3PL and freight forwarders in Japan, review and update SOW (Scope of Works) and drive best practices and standardized operational procedures. Oversee and maintain performance of Logistics Service Providers (LSP) as aligned to business goals, setup KPIs and standard operation procedures as needed. Validate, update and file the contract including such terms and conditions as well as pricing for all logistics related vendors, which includes PR/PO process, regular invoice validation and settlement through internal process flow that includes transaction through SAP. Manage historical and up-to-date logistics data in a timely manner to clarify data driven logistics health upon CTS (Cost-To-Serve) evaluation and improvements. Collaborate with functional SME (subject matter experts) such as Trade Compliance, Transportation Compliance, HSE&S to ensure operational compliance. Coordinate and support import/export related issues such as delivery, damage, quality control, customs office relations and other trouble shooting requirements. Supervise 3PL importation team and collaborate with them, Planner, CX members and Finance team for all importation and exportation especially upon tracking and management of “deferred tax payment system”. Manage LZA bulk importation through alignment with the source plant and planner, and supervise such unloading deliveries via domestic vessels which is including contract preparation and appointment of local marine operators. Provide insight on local logistics regulatory environment as well as industry trend, collaborate with the regional Logistics Procurement to define sourcing strategy to ensure sustainable logistics performance with competitive edge. This includes validation and optimization initiatives for the existing transportation modes and routes for importation, domestic deliveries and exportation. Lead Logistics CI (continuous improvement) project by coordinating internal and external stakeholders, identify and promote new technologies and work methods to streamline processes and reduce operational cost. Interface and actively engage with cross function partners such as Planning, Operations and CX to drive process optimization and cost efficiency. Support Japan Logistics and Warehousing Network Optimization initiatives upon alignment with the global and regional initiatives. Support other regional supply chain projects and initiatives assigned by line manager such as external warehouse audit and 3PM (the third party manufacturing) audits etc.

Requirements:

Education: Bachelor’s degree or other related quantitative disciplines in logistics, supply chain or manufacturing. Experience: At least 5-10 years working experience in logistics for manufacturing company, or import/export wholesaler and distributors, or international third-party logistics companies.  Experience in vendor management of freight forwarders, Customs brokers, Warehouse and Transportation companies which includes sourcing and contract negotiation. Experience to manage warehouse operations and having skills to validate and implement SOW and SOP. Good insight and focus on logistics cost with Cost-To-Serve concept and understandings of on-hand activities through data analytical approach. Experience in Chemical industry or related industry is preferred. Main Core Competencies： Seek new and better approaches to their work Analytical, data driven and good problem solving Self-driven, take initiative and leading Teamwork and communication Knowledge, technical/professional skill: Hands-on, willing to work under pressure Excellent analysis and problem-solving skills Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word and Outlook SAP experience is preferred Advanced level skill in Microsoft Excel (pivot table and v-lookup etc.) is preferred ISO management and experience will be a plus TQM, Lean Management will be a plus Project Management will be a plus Procurement and negotiation skill will be a plus Language Skill: Fluent in Japanese (Native speaker level) English (Intermediate in reading/writing and primary-intermediate in listening)