About the Role
Smart Homes Japan is seeking an Operations Manager to oversee daily business workflows, optimise operational efficiency and develop the systems required for the next stage of our growth. This critical leadership role will support the business across administration, compliance, HR, procurement and project logistics.
Reporting directly to the CEO and working alongside the core leadership team, you will facilitate communication between departments, manage relationships with vendors and accountants, and ensure operational excellence across all active projects. Based in Niseko, with an established presence in Sapporo and Hakuba, we’re actively expanding nationwide. This offers a unique opportunity to shape the operations of a scaling startup in a booming market.
Employment Details
Employment Type: Full-time
Contract Type: 1-year fixed term contract (Renewal is considered based on performance and business needs.)
Start Date: Immediate
Salary: ¥5,400,000 to 7,000,000 per year (based on skills and experience)
Location: Kutchan, Hokkaido
Language: Japanese (Fluent), English (Intermediate or above preferred)
Working Hours: 40 hours/week, Monday to Friday, 8:00 to 17:00 (including a 60-minute daily break)
Note – Shift times are subject to operational adjustments based on business needs.
Probation Period: Three months, evaluating performance, communication, attendance and overall aptitude.
Key Responsibilities
Business Operations & Administration: Overseeing daily administrative workflows, maintaining company policies and ensuring compliance with local regulations.
Procurement & Logistics: Responsibilities include managing vendor relationships, inventory and supply chain logistics, as well as ensuring the timely delivery of materials to active project sites.
Financial & HR Coordination: Supervise bookkeeping, invoicing and communications with the accountant. Manage core HR functions, including onboarding, payroll coordination and employee records.
Project & Business Support: Assist with project schedules, service team coordination, client documentation and proposal preparation for business development.
Who you Are
Operations Architect: You enjoy creating structure, building clear workflows and finding innovative ways to streamline processes.
Detail-Oriented & Accountable: You are highly accurate in your documentation, take strong ownership of your responsibilities and ensure that cross-departmental projects are completed on schedule.
Strong Communicator: You interact seamlessly with diverse international and local trade stakeholders, external accountants and internal teams.
Proactive Problem Solver: You think strategically, anticipate operational bottlenecks and implement solutions independently.
Requirements
- A minimum of three years’ experience in business operations, administration, office management or a related role is required.
- Native-level Japanese proficiency (JLPT N1) and business-level English proficiency required.
- Must have solid technical proficiency with modern business tools such as Google Workspace, accounting software and project management applications.
- Legal right to work in Japan.
Preferred Qualifications
- Previous experience of working in a fast-growing start-up or small business environment.
- Have a working knowledge of Japanese labour laws, social insurance and corporate compliance processes.
- Valid Japanese driver’s license (or an International Driving Permit).
Perks & Benefits
Prime Location & Work-Life Balance: Live and work in Niseko, one of the world’s premier mountain resorts, and enjoy a genuine work-life balance.
Industry Insights & Travel: Work on high-profile projects across Hokkaido and nationwide, with opportunities to represent the company at key smart home trade shows and conferences both in Japan and internationally.
Paid Annual Leave: 10 days granted upon completing 6 months of continuous employment, in accordance with Japanese labor regulations.
Flexible Public Holidays: 16 annual public holiday days (equivalent to Japan’s statutory allowance) that can be scheduled at your discretion throughout the year, subject to prior approval.
Comprehensive Social Insurance: Full enrollment in Health Insurance, Welfare Pension, and Employment Insurance for full-time staff.
Allowances: Monthly commuter and phone allowance provided for full-time employees.
Performance Bonus: Performance-based bonuses tied to individual achievements and company targets.
Professional Development: Direct support for technical certifications, specialised training, and ongoing career development.
Why Join Us?
Shape a New Market: Join a fast-growing international start-up pioneering smart home automation in Japan.
High-End Portfolio: Gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge technology on luxury residential, hotel and commercial projects.
Impact & Culture: Enjoy the collaborative energy of a close-knit team where your ideas directly influence the company’s direction.
Career Progression: Take on greater responsibility and leadership roles as we expand nationwide.
See our Website and Instagram page to explore our recent projects and get a feel for our work.
Ready to Join?
Are you passionate about smart technology and ready to build your career with us?
We’d love to hear from you! Please send your CV to [email protected].