Japanese Speaking Sales Team Leader

About the role

We are seeking a bilingual Japanese‑English Sales Team Leader to drive growth across the UK and European markets. Based in Newcastle, you will manage key customer relationships, lead a sales team, and support business development initiatives.

Key responsibilities

• Maintain and strengthen relationships with key customers in the UK and overseas.
• Provide prompt, effective support for customer enquiries and requirements.
• Achieve sales targets and profit objectives through proactive sales activities and account management.
• Develop and implement medium‑ to long‑term sales and marketing strategies.
• Collaborate with management on RFQs and identify opportunities for growth.
• Work closely with operational teams to forecast and monitor customer production needs.
• Maintain accurate sales records, including quotations, drawings, product data, and model control sheets.
• Travel regularly across Europe, especially Eastern Europe (1–2 trips per month).
• Support inventory management, including bi‑annual stock‑taking.
• Identify training needs and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven B2B sales experience selling tangible products.
• Background in manufacturing, automotive, engineering, or industrial sectors is highly desirable.
• Fluent in Japanese and English.
• Full UK driving licence and availability for regular European travel.
• Strong communication, relationship‑management and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to respond quickly to customer requirements in a fast‑paced environment.
• Familiarity with interpreting mechanical or technical drawings is an advantage.
• Proficient with Microsoft Office applications.

Required skills

• Microsoft Office

What we offer

• Competitive salary of £40,000 per year.
• Permanent contract with a 35‑hour work week.
• Opportunities for professional development and travel across Europe.