Branch Manager Japan

Company Description

Shaping the Future of Automotive Engineering

Applus+ IDIADA is a global leader in automotive engineering, offering a dynamic and rewarding career opportunity for professionals passionate about shaping the future of mobility. As a TOP Employer certified company with over 3000 professionals from more than 22 countries, we provide a diverse and inclusive work environment that fosters innovation and growth with colleagues from over 57 nationalities contributing to a safer, more efficient, and sustainable vehicles.

Why join us?

Enjoy a highly flexible hybrid work model in a company that takes care of the employees’ wellbeing, offering work-life balance benefits such as subsidized canteen, free language courses, transport and coaching services.

Join a company that has a deep commitment to sustainability and push yourself to reach your full potential in a dynamic and challenging setting that values innovation and expertise.

Come & join us on the road to success.

#LI-Hybrid

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced Branch Manager to lead our operations in Japan. As Country Manager, you will oversee our offices in Tokyo and Nagoya, ensuring operational excellence, financial performance, and strategic alignment with corporate strategy and HQ.

This is a high-impact leadership role where you'll be responsible for office management, team development, financial administration, and regulatory compliance—all while fostering IDIADA's culture of innovation and excellence in the Japanese market.

Key Responsibilities

General office management

Oversee office management operations in alignment with IDIADA standards: OHS, HR, Finance, IT, Legal & Compliance, Procurement & Logistics, leveraging support from IDIADA HQ and other business units

Ensure implementation of Applus+ and IDIADA policies and procedures region-wide

Serve as legal representative in Japan, ensuring full regulatory compliance

Manage office facilities, vendor relationships, IT infrastructure, and administrative systems

Financial Management

Take full responsibility for Japan budget planning, monitoring, and administration

Prepare consolidated financial reports, forecasts, and variance analysis

Control operational expenses and optimize cost-effectiveness across all locations

Identify operational improvements and efficiency opportunities

HR & Team Support

Ensure compliance with local labor laws and HR policies, with support from HQ as needed

Oversee recruitment, onboarding, and employee relations

Support performance management and team development initiatives

Drive employee engagement and foster IDIADA's culture

Qualifications

10+ years of experience in country management, preferably in automotive, engineering services, or IT sectors

Bachelor's degree in Business, Finance, or Engineering

Native or fluent Japanese and advanced English (written and spoken)

Proven track record managing multi-site operations within a multinational organization

Strong financial management expertise (budgeting, forecasting, P&L analysis)

Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to manage diverse stakeholders across different cultures

Additional Information

Applus IDIADA is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We don’t put limits on you, so don’t put limits on yourself either. There is a place for everyone.