The Machinery Department Manager role specialises in business-to-business technical sales, strategic key account management, and the execution of large-scale projects within the industrial equipment sector. The position manages a broad range of machinery products, develops sustainable distribution networks, optimises procurement processes, and supports long-term relationships with industrial clients. This onsite role combines strong technical and commercial knowledge with an understanding of Japanese trading practices and the ability to negotiate complex supply chain agreements.
Responsibilities
Business Development
Drive business expansion for heavy industrial and construction machinery, including excavators, wheel loaders, cranes, excavator undercarriage parts, automobile parts, steel components and parts, compressor systems, and specialised foundation equipment
Formulate and execute mid-term trading strategies by identifying upcoming infrastructure and real estate megaprojects
Expand market share by securing large fleet supply contracts with major tier-one construction contractors and rental companies
Drive the department’s sales targets by acquiring new industrial clients, managing key accounts, and closing high-value machinery contracts
Supply Chain & Trade Operations Oversight
Oversee end-to-end import and export logistics, customs clearance, shipping documentation, and local compliance requirements for heavy machinery
Coordinate with global manufacturing plants, including Japanese original equipment manufacturers, regarding production schedules, technical customisation, and delivery timelines
Risk Management & Structured Finance
Evaluate financial viability, credit terms, and payment security, including letters of credit and trade credit insurance, for major capital equipment transactions to minimise default risks
Manage structured financing packages, equipment leasing arrangements, and local vendor financing models
Stakeholder & Principal Management
Maintain high-level reporting and alignment with Japanese-speaking management, regional headquarters, and manufacturing partners
Build trust-based relationships with Japanese-speaking corporate accounts operating in the local market, as well as local conglomerates
Operational & Logistics Oversight
Supervise the end-to-end order fulfilment process, including the tracking of shipping, customs clearance, warehousing, and final delivery to clients
Monitor inventory levels to balance market demand with optimal holding and storage costs
Requirements
Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering or Electrical Engineering, a Bachelor of Engineering, or a Master of Business Administration from a government-recognised institute or university
Strong financial acumen, including profit and loss management and trade financing
Resilience and strong negotiation capabilities
Solid technical understanding of industrial machinery and heavy equipment
Familiarity with international trade terms and import and export documentation
Excellent negotiation, communication, and client relationship management skills
Willingness to travel for sales calls
About the company
A company in the industrial trading sector that handles machinery, equipment, components, and related business solutions. The organisation supports business-to-business transactions and supply chain activities for customers across industrial and construction-related markets.