Leader to Manage Parts Import Section (Reporting to Group Manager)

Role: Leader to manage Parts Import Section (reporting to Group manager)

Group: Automotive Parts Imports

Employment Status: Permanent

The Company

Honda Trading Corporation is a global network operating in over 21 countries and regions with bases in 54 locations throughout the world. We are a wholly owned subsidiary of Honda Motor (Japan) and the only trading company of the Honda Group.

Honda Trading Europe Ltd is a £400M Company, with the European HQ based in Swindon and extended branches in Italy, Germany and Turkey. Through our unique network, we provide a diverse range of products and logistics services within the supply chain of Honda’s European and Global manufacturing operations.

We specialise in supplying:
-Raw materials such as light metals, steel, plastics and resin
-Direct supply import of parts for Just in Time delivery to Honda’s EU production facilities & their Suppliers.
-Parts export to Honda’s global manufacturing operations
-Dies and machinery for manufacturing operations.
-CE Marking of manufacturing equipment.

Through our corporate philosophy we are dedicated to exceeding global customer expectations through creative and effective commercial activities using established methods such as Total Quality Management (TQM). We are an ISO & AEO accredited progressive Company, continually exploring new business opportunities to expand our portfolio.

The Role
The Parts Import team are responsible for the Import and Distribution of components and sub-assemblies, sourced globally and consumed by Honda’s Manufacturing Operations (including Tier 1, 2 and 3 suppliers) in the EU Region.
You will be supervising the operation of a section (typically 6 associates) and supporting the Group manager in achieving business targets. Responsible for the operational performance and delivery of the section, and also for leading activities relating to new and repeat business, and developing strong relationships with both customers and suppliers. Furthering development of the team by focussing on individual performance and support requirements.
You will be a results-focussed people manager with a demonstrable track record of systematic problem-solving by development and implementation of innovative solutions in a fast paced, high volume environment, and will be experienced in delivering continuous improvement using quality management tools such as TQM, PDCA and 5 Why.
You will ideally have experience within the automotive industry directly or within the manufacturing supply chain or similar.

Main Responsibilities
-To lead the section on a daily basis, supervising and developing personnel in order to achieve high standards in Quality, Cost, Delivery, Management, Safety and Environment with clear and continuous improvement plans in place to ensure achievements via TQM methodology.
-Achieve set targets and objectives for yourself and that of your team.
-Develop and improve customer service, based on HTE initiative and customer feedback, to offer best possible service to customers while managing associated risks accordingly.
-Develop ideas and future strategies to improve operating efficiency and business performance.
-Authorise business transactions, customer quotations, purchase orders and invoices within company deadlines ensuring compliance to relevant company & legal requirements.
-Act as a representative for HTE to develop the relationship with key departments from Honda UK Manufacturing, with a goal to expand and promote our business.

Person Specification: Skills & Experience required

Must have:
-Excellent supervisory and people management skills and experience (team management)
-Demonstrable track record in continuous improvement & problem-solving
-Knowledge and understanding of budget setting and control
-Flexibility to travel on company business
-Full UK driving license

Desirable:
-Experience within manufacturing or supply chain sectors of the automotive or related industries
-Working knowledge and experience within purchasing/logistics/freight-forwarding
-Excellent negotiation, communication and decision making skills
-Excellent presentation and project management skills
-Good analytical and numerical skills
-Strong commercial awareness
-CIPS or similar qualification would be an advantage in this position

Capabilities/Competencies

Leadership and Associate Management
-Leading the Team
-Planning & Organising
-Associate Development
Self-Management
-Making thing happen
-Professional Integrity
-Learning Agility
Business Improvement
-Strategic Perspective
-Continuous improvement
-Analysis & Problem Solving

Benefits
-Salary: circa £36,000 – £48,000depending on experience plus benefits as outlined below
37 hours per week with additional flexibility according to business requirements
-Honda Defined Contribution Pension Scheme (with generous contribution from HTE) including life insurance cover
25 days annual holiday (plus statutory bank holidays)
-Potential to accrue additional holiday according to business requirements
-Child care voucher scheme
-Honda New Car Lease Scheme with preferential terms (after successful completion of probation period)
-Private Medical Insurance for associate and immediate family (after successful completion of probation period)
-Premium membership to National Health & Fitness Club (after successful completion of probation period)

Personal development
Future potential progression opportunities and/or cross functional development based on demonstrable performance.