Program Director

Are you ready to lead transformative retail and supply chain projects in one of the most dynamic markets in the world? My client, SaaS Software company in SCM and Retail planning space is expanding its footprint in Japan and is seeking a visionary Program Director to guide a portfolio of software implementation projects from strategy to execution.

Location: Japan

Type: Full-time

Languages: Fluent English & Native-level Japanese

As Program Director, you will:

• Lead the implementation strategy across multiple customer accounts.
• Own project profitability, planning, scope, and commercial negotiations.
• Build and maintain senior-level customer relationships (Director, CX Suite).
• Act as the escalation point for strategic decisions and bottlenecks.
• Collaborate with APAC partners to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Support sales initiatives with insights on timelines, resources, and approach.

What We’re Looking For

• Proven success in leading IT system implementations within large retail environments.
• Experience in governance or steering committees.
• Strong stakeholder management and change management consulting skills.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and negotiation abilities.
• Strategic risk management and forward-thinking project direction.
• Native-level Japanese and fluent English for client engagement.

Bonus Points

• Degree qualification or equivalent experience in retail or IT systems implementation, such as ERP, SCM, or projects with retail customers.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and business growth orientation.
• Knowledge of supply chain management and experience with grocery/CPG/FMCG sectors.
• Familiarity with SCM systems from both business and IT perspectives.
• Additional Asian language proficiency.
• Project Management certifications.
• Background in consultancy roles.

Interested? Reach out to Kumiko Aratake at k.aratake@nigelfrank.com or call +81 3 4571 1144 for more details