At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead daily operations and manage a small team in a dynamic online retail environment.
- Company: Join Made in Japan UK, the top importer of Japanese tableware and homeware, based near Leeds.
- Benefits: Enjoy a performance-based bonus, 28 days holiday, and a collaborative work culture.
- Other info: A passion for Japanese design or homeware is a bonus, but not essential.
- Why this job: Be part of a growing business that values your input and initiative in a hands-on role.
- Qualifications: Experience in sales and team management, with strong organisational skills and a commercial mindset.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Made in Japan General Manager - Online Retail & Wholesale
Full-Time | Permanent | Based in West Yorkshire
Location & Working Hours
Based at our warehouse / office in Batley West Yorkshire, Monday–Friday 9am–5pm
About Us
Made in Japan UK is the country’s leading importer of Japanese tableware and homeware, independent and based just outside Leeds. Over the past seven years, we have built a loyal and growing customer base through our online Shopify store and a strong network of wholesale clients including renowned restaurants, independent retailers, and hospitality venues.
As a design-led business with a commitment to quality, service and online storytelling, we are entering an exciting new phase of growth. To support this, we are seeking a capable and experienced Manager to oversee daily operations, support our team, and help us deliver continued excellence across all areas of the business. Alongside our warehouse HQ, we also run a retail store, Found at Redbrick, within Redbrick.
This role will not manage the store or team, but we value collaboration across the business and encourage shared thinking between online, wholesale and retail.
We’ve built something we are proud of, but there is much more to do. We are now looking for someone to help us strengthen our foundations and lead the next phase of growth from the inside out.
The Role
As General Manager, you will take ownership of our daily operational processes and team coordination, ensuring the smooth and efficient running of the business.
You will be responsible for leading a team of 7, across warehouse fulfilment, sales, customer service and technical support. This is a hands-on leadership role with broad responsibilities, covering day-to-day operations, sales team management, logistics and sales growth. You will be organised, driven and commercially aware, ready to take ownership of how things run and help move the business forward.
Key Responsibilities
1. Operations & Logistics
Oversee daily warehouse operations, from stock intake to order dispatch
Ensure processes are followed, efficient, and continually improved
Coordinate with couriers, suppliers, and internal teams to meet timelines
Lead wholesale sales, with support from part time sales colleague and co-founder
Identify ways to grow and streamline both online and wholesale sales
Maintain and build relationships with wholesale customers
Support the planning and execution of product launches and seasonal campaigns
3. People & Team Management
Lead and support a small team across dispatch, customer service, and admin
Responsible for managing team, new hires and day to day tasks
Maintain our positive, productive, and accountable team culture
4. Supplier & Inventory Management
Manage purchase cycles and supplier communication (mainly in Japan)
Plan stock levels and oversee goods-in process
Liaise with freight agents and manage delivery timelines
5. Systems, Admin & Coordination
Oversee Shopify, Square, and other operational tools
Support admin tasks and reporting for both day-to-day and strategic needs
Recommend and implement improvements to systems and processes
KPIs & Success Metrics
You’ll be supported with clear, practical metrics to track progress, including: Dispatch accuracy and order turnaround
Customer satisfaction and issue resolution
Sales growth across Shopify and wholesale channels
Stock accuracy and purchasing efficiency
Team engagement and performance reviews
Supplier communication and delivery timelines
Quarterly reviews will support you to reflect, plan, and keep growing in the role.
Salary & Benefits
Performance based bonus of up 10% of base salary
28 days holiday (including bank holidays)
What We’re Looking For
Commercial mindset and sales experience particularly wholesale
Experience leading operations and people in a small or growing business
Comfortable managing and developing a team
Strong organisational and problem-solving skills
Confident with software, systems, and improving processes
Self-motivated, honest, and excited to help build something long-term
Bonus: interest in Japanese design, food, or homeware (not essential)
Why Work With Us?
We’re a values-led business with a hands-on culture. We care about what we do, and we take pride in doing things properly. You won’t be a cog in a machine here—you’ll be at the centre of a growing, energetic business that values input, initiative, and people who get stuck in.
If you’re ready to take ownership, make improvements, and be part of something that’s genuinely special, we’d love to hear from you.
Please send your CV and a brief explanation of why you want to join the Made in Japan team tophilip@mij.co.uk
Please note that unfortunately we are unable to respond to unsuccessful candidates, however we would like to thank you for your interest in our company.
#J-18808-LjbffrGeneral Manager Online Retail in Batley employer: Redbrick Yorkshire Ltd
Made in Japan UK is an exceptional employer that fosters a collaborative and values-led work culture, where your contributions are genuinely valued. Located in Batley, West Yorkshire, we offer a supportive environment with opportunities for personal and professional growth, alongside competitive benefits such as a performance-based bonus and generous holiday allowance. Join us to be part of a dynamic team that takes pride in quality and innovation, while playing a key role in our exciting journey of growth.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land General Manager Online Retail in Batley
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the online retail landscape, especially in the homeware sector. Understanding current trends and customer preferences can give you an edge during discussions with us.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership experience by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed teams in previous roles. We value hands-on leadership, so be ready to discuss your approach to team management.
✨Tip Number 3
Research our company culture and values. Being able to articulate how your personal values align with ours will demonstrate your genuine interest in joining the Made in Japan team.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your experience with operational tools like Shopify and Square. Highlighting your comfort with these systems will show us that you're ready to hit the ground running.
We think you need these skills to ace General Manager Online Retail in Batley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in operations, team management, and sales, particularly in the retail or wholesale sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your leadership skills and commercial mindset.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a brief cover letter explaining why you want to join Made in Japan. Focus on your passion for Japanese design and homeware, and how your skills align with their values and goals. Be genuine and enthusiastic!
Highlight Relevant Achievements:In both your CV and cover letter, include quantifiable achievements from previous roles, such as sales growth percentages, improvements in operational efficiency, or successful team management experiences.
Proofread Your Application:Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Redbrick Yorkshire Ltd
✨Understand the Company Culture
Before your interview, take some time to research Made in Japan's values and culture. They pride themselves on being a hands-on, values-led business, so be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
As a General Manager, you'll be leading a team. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, particularly in operations or sales. Highlight your ability to foster a positive team culture.
✨Demonstrate Commercial Awareness
The role requires a strong commercial mindset, especially in wholesale. Prepare to discuss your experience with sales growth and how you've previously identified opportunities for improvement in operations or logistics.
✨Prepare Questions About Growth Strategies
Since the company is entering a new phase of growth, come equipped with thoughtful questions about their future plans. This shows your interest in contributing to their success and your proactive approach to leadership.
