Operations Manager (Lean Fulfillment & Logistics)

Minimum Qualifications

• Proven experience leading warehouse or e-commerce fulfillment teams in fast-growth, startup, or dynamic environments.
• Hands-on experience applying Lean and/or Toyota Production System principles (e.g., Kaizen leadership, one-piece flow, 5S).
• Demonstrated ability to build processes and KPIs from scratch in tech-driven companies.
• Strong proficiency in both English and Japanese required (fluent in one, business-level in the other minimum)
• Uses data tools (SQL, spreadsheets, BI platforms) to analyze performance and drive operational improvements.
• Thrives in a “real-time sometimes, asynchronous most of the time” culture.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with cross-border e-commerce.

About This Job White Rabbit Japan is working to elevate cross-border e-commerce between Japanese sellers and overseas buyers. Our products—JapanRabbit.com (proxy buying) and Blackship.com (package forwarding)—make it easy for people and businesses worldwide to shop and ship from Japan. We’re a profitable, growth-stage company with an ambitious vision. Your work will directly impact our ability to scale while maintaining the exceptional service our customers expect.

As Operations Manager, you’ll oversee fulfillment and logistics operations to drive speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency. You’ll lead a diverse team of ~25, build lean workflows, and implement key metrics to keep operations aligned and productive. You’ll act as both coach and change agent, collaborating closely with Engineering, Customer Support, and shipping partners to continuously improve our processes and systems.

You’ll thrive in a fast-paced, growth-stage environment where being hands-on and continuously iterating is essential. You’re motivated by finding and fixing operational bottlenecks, applying lean thinking like one-piece flow, and building the KPIs that keep us on track. You’re comfortable working in a dynamic, tech-driven setting where priorities can evolve quickly, and you’re excited to help shape our path from “10 to 100.”

The salary range for this full-time position is ¥7 million to ¥10 million annually. Within the range, individual pay is determined by factors such as job-related skills, experience, and performance. Additional compensation includes pension, healthcare, and other perks.

Responsibilities

• Own daily operations — Oversee receiving, storage, picking/packing, shipping, and supplies management ensuring timeliness, accuracy, and low cost.
• Design lean processes — Apply one-piece flow, eliminate waste, and implement 5S to reduce cycle times and errors.
• Coordinate cross-functional efforts — Work with Engineering, Customer Support, and upper management to align resources and share information.
• Coach and develop — Mentor team members and supervisors in lean thinking, root-cause problem-solving, and frontline engagement.
• Manage exceptions — Oversee processes for handling prohibited items, returned packages, insurance claims, and customer issues.
• Foster a culture of ownership — Encourage team members to embrace iterative improvements, enabling them to make changes quickly and drive continuous progress.

If you don't check every box but are excited about this role and believe you can make an impact, we encourage you to apply.