Business Development & Program Manager

Business Development & Program ManagerLocation: Southern California, USAEmployment Type: Full-TimePosition SummaryOur client is seeking a Business Development & Program Manager to support business operations between its U.S. office, global suppliers, customers, and headquarters in Japan.This position plays a key role in managing existing business programs while identifying new business opportunities in the North American market. The successful candidate will coordinate with suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders to ensure smooth project execution, provide market intelligence, and support strategic business growth.In addition to maintaining ongoing programs, this individual will help standardize business processes, improve operational efficiency, and strengthen communication between the U.S. operation and headquarters.Key ResponsibilitiesProgram & Project ManagementManage multiple customer and supplier programs from quotation through delivery.Monitor project schedules, milestones, action items, and deliverables.Coordinate quotations, purchase orders, deliveries, technical inquiries, and customer requests.Identify and escalate schedule delays, quality concerns, contractual issues, and business risks.Organize project meetings, prepare meeting minutes, and track follow-up actions.Maintain accurate documentation of customer requirements, supplier responses, and project history.Supplier & Partner ManagementDevelop and maintain relationships with U.S.-based manufacturers, suppliers, and business partners.Communicate Japanese customer requirements and market expectations to suppliers in English.Gather information regarding products, manufacturing capabilities, supply conditions, pricing, and business strategies.Coordinate technical discussions, pricing negotiations, delivery schedules, repair services, and quality-related issues.Visit supplier facilities, customer sites, trade shows, and industry conferences as needed.Business Development & Market ResearchSupport headquarters with business development activities in North America.Identify potential new suppliers, products, technologies, and strategic partners.Conduct market research on industry trends, competitors, pricing, regulations, and market opportunities.Coordinate customer and supplier meetings during visits from headquarters personnel.Support trade show participation and business meetings.Assist in preparing presentation materials, product introductions, and business proposals.Evaluate new business opportunities and recommend potential projects to headquarters.Planning & ReportingPrepare monthly business activity reports.Report project status, risks, issues, and future action plans.Support budget tracking and business performance reporting.Assist with annual business planning and mid-term strategic planning.Analyze market size, competitive landscape, and business strategy.Participate in regular meetings with headquarters and provide updates.Maintain organized records of contracts, quotations, purchase orders, and business documentation.Process ImprovementLearn existing business processes through a structured transition period.Document workflows, customer information, supplier contacts, and project history.Improve documentation, reporting formats, and project management processes.Help establish standardized operating procedures that reduce dependency on individual knowledge.Promote effective information sharing between the U.S. office and headquarters.Required QualificationsBachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.Experience in one or more of the following:Business DevelopmentB2B SalesInternational SalesTechnical SalesPurchasing / ProcurementProject or Program ManagementTrading Company OperationsExperience coordinating with customers, suppliers, manufacturers, and external business partners.Proven ability to manage multiple projects, deadlines, and stakeholders simultaneously.Strong verbal and written communication skills in both English and Japanese.Experience preparing business documents using Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint).Strong analytical and organizational skills with the ability to identify risks, summarize issues, and recommend next steps.Ability to work independently in a small, collaborative organization.Legal authorization to work in the United States.Preferred QualificationsExperience in one or more of the following areas is highly desirable:Aerospace, Defense, Space, Electronics, Telecommunications, Industrial Equipment, or MRO industriesTrading companies or manufacturing organizationsWorking with U.S.-based manufacturers or suppliersJapanese multinational companies or their U.S. subsidiariesGovernment or large industrial customersTechnical documentation, specifications, engineering drawings, or RFPsImport/export operations, trade compliance, or contract administrationCRM, ERP, or project management systemsMarket research and new business developmentTrade shows, industry conferences, and customer visitsValid driver's licenseIdeal CandidateThe ideal candidate is someone who:Takes initiative rather than waiting for instructions.Can prioritize issues and proactively drive projects forward.Communicates clearly and objectively, distinguishing facts from assumptions.Escalates risks and problems promptly.Works effectively across multicultural and cross-functional teams.Values documentation, organization, and process improvement.Learns new products and technologies quickly.Demonstrates professionalism, integrity, and strong attention to detail.Enjoys balancing day-to-day project execution with long-term business development.What You'll AccomplishDuring your first several months, you will:Build relationships with key suppliers, customers, and internal stakeholders.Learn existing business operations and ongoing programs.Participate in customer meetings, supplier communications, and project coordination.Become familiar with reporting processes and project management tools.As you grow into the role, you will:Independently manage assigned business programs.Support strategic business initiatives between North America and Japan.Identify new suppliers, products, and market opportunities.Improve operational processes and documentation.Become a key contributor supporting business expansion in the North American market.Work LocationSouthern California (Los Angeles Area)TravelOccasional domestic U.S. travel and international travel to Japan may be required.Compensation & BenefitsCompetitive salary commensurate with experience and qualificationsPerformance-based bonus opportunityMedical insuranceAdditional benefits provided in accordance with company policy