Sales Team Leader (Fluent Japanese)

About the role

We are seeking a Sales Team Leader with fluent Japanese to join an automotive parts manufacturer based near Newcastle. You will manage key customer relationships across the UK and Europe, drive sales growth, and support the company’s long‑term objectives.

Key responsibilities

• Build and maintain strong relationships with existing customers in the UK and overseas.
• Respond promptly to customer enquiries and requirements.
• Drive sales activities to meet revenue and profit targets.
• Develop and implement medium‑ to long‑term sales and marketing strategies.
• Collaborate with management on RFQs and identify growth opportunities.
• Work with operational teams to forecast and monitor production requirements.
• Maintain sales records, quotations, drawings, and product data.
• Conduct regular customer visits and business trips across Europe, especially Eastern Europe (1–2 trips per month).
• Support inventory management and biannual stock‑taking.
• Identify training needs and contribute to continuous improvement.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 years of B2B sales experience selling tangible products.
• Experience in manufacturing, automotive, engineering or industrial sectors is highly desirable.
• Fluent Japanese and English.
• Full UK driving licence.
• Willingness to travel regularly across Europe, particularly Eastern Europe.
• Strong communication, relationship‑building and negotiation abilities.

Required skills

What we offer

• Private medical insurance.
• Relocation support.
• Salary £37,000–£43,000 per year plus bonus.
• Permanent, full‑time contract.
• Office‑based role with regular travel.