A logistics and supply chain company is seeking a Contract Logistics Sales Representative - Japanese Speaker based in Schiphol-Rijk. The role focuses on developing new business and expanding relationships with Japan-based corporate accounts in the Netherlands and across Europe. It combines strategic account development, consultative solution sales, commercial negotiation, and cross-functional coordination to deliver practical contract logistics solutions. Visa sponsorship is available for this position.
Responsibilities
Business Development & Account Acquisition
Identify and pursue new business opportunities among Japan-based companies operating in the Netherlands and across Europe
Develop and execute strategic target account plans
Generate leads through networking, referrals, cold calling, email outreach, and client visits
Build long-term relationships with prospective customers and key decision-makers
Expand business within existing accounts by identifying untapped logistics requirements
Drive new customer acquisition and new business revenue growth
Solution Sales & Contract Logistics Consulting
Analyse customers’ logistics and supply chain challenges
Provide consultative sales support and develop tailored logistics solutions
Design and propose integrated solutions covering:
Contract Logistics
Warehousing
Inventory Management
Distribution
Value-Added Services
Coordinate comprehensive solutions by incorporating air, ocean, and road freight services where appropriate
Create opportunities related to warehouse setup, outsourcing, network redesign, and third-party logistics (3PL) implementation
Understand customers’ end-to-end supply chains and identify optimisation opportunities
Tender, Proposal & Commercial Management
Manage requests for quotation (RFQs), requests for proposal (RFPs), tenders, and commercial bidding processes
Prepare customer presentations, proposals, pricing models, and quotations
Lead commercial negotiations regarding service scope, pricing, and contractual terms
Manage the complete sales cycle from prospecting through to closing
Support solution demonstrations and customer presentations when required
Internal Coordination & Solution Implementation
Collaborate closely with Operations, Warehousing, Forwarding, and other internal departments
Participate in logistics solution design and operational planning
Ensure commercial offerings are operationally feasible
Support a smooth project handover following contract award
Assist with the implementation and start-up of new logistics operations
Gather and communicate customer feedback to support continuous service improvement
Pipeline & Performance Management
Maintain an active sales pipeline and target account portfolio
Track opportunity stages, expected revenue, conversion probability, and implementation timelines
Deliver regular sales reports and forecasts to management
Monitor market trends, competitor developments, and business activity among Japan-based companies across Europe
Manage activities and performance against agreed sales key performance indicators (KPIs)
Requirements
Minimum 3 years of business-to-business (B2B) sales experience within the logistics industry
Strong knowledge of Contract Logistics, 3PL, and Warehousing solutions
Proven success in new business development and customer acquisition
Experience managing the full sales cycle, including prospecting, needs analysis, proposal development, negotiation, and closing
Ability to understand customer logistics challenges and deliver solution-based sales
Business-level English and Japanese proficiency
Valid driving licence
Willingness to travel extensively within the Netherlands and Europe
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
Strong communication, stakeholder management, and coordination skills
Preferred qualifications:
Direct sales experience in Contract Logistics, 3PL, or Warehouse Solutions
Operational experience in warehousing, distribution, or inventory management
Knowledge of international freight forwarding across air, ocean, and road services
Experience working for logistics providers, freight forwarders, or 3PL operators
Experience supporting Japan-based corporate customers in Europe
Track record of winning RFQs, RFPs, and large logistics contracts
Experience launching new warehouses, logistics facilities, or 3PL operations
Industry experience across the automotive, electronics, machinery, or consumer goods sectors
Knowledge of logistics compliance, customs, and regulatory frameworks
Candidate profile:
Commercially driven professional with a strong new-business development mindset and the ability to proactively identify opportunities and convert them into profitable business
Comfortable with cold calling and proactive prospecting
Able to demonstrate resilience throughout long sales cycles
Capable of building trusted relationships with customers at all levels
Focused on value creation rather than price competition
Understanding of Japanese business culture and the ability to operate successfully in a European business environment
Able to collaborate effectively with operational teams to deliver practical logistics solutions
Strong focus on pipeline growth, sales performance, and profitability
Benefits
Visa sponsorship
About the company
A logistics company providing a range of transportation and supply chain services. Its services include contract logistics, warehousing, freight forwarding, distribution, and international transportation.