Local Sales Manager (Japan)

Join Us in Shaping the Future of Regulatory Services.

knoell is one of the leading global service providers in regulatory registration, clinical development, and product development support. As a family-owned business, we take pride in our commitment to the highest standards and believe that people are at the heart of our success. With our team of scientific and regulatory experts and an extensive network of partners, we ensure reliable solutions that address our clients' global business needs right from the start.

At knoell, we are guided by our core values of commitment, reliability, excellence and diversity. Are you someone who thrives in a collaborative environment? Do you take pride in delivering high-quality results and upholding excellence in everything you do? At knoell, we are passionate about embracing diverse perspectives, knowing that this fuels innovation and strengthens our impact. If you're ready to be part of a team that values these principles, we want to hear from you!

Think Globally. Act Locally.

POSITION OVERVIEW

As a key member of knoell’s Global Sales organization, the Local Sales Manager plays a central role in driving business growth and executing local sales strategies in Japan. This position focuses on acquiring new clients and deepening relationships with existing customers, in close alignment with regional and global sales initiatives.

Combining strong sales expertise with technical (ideally scientific or regulatory) knowledge, you will help expand our presence in Japan’s growing regulatory consulting market.

You will work closely with internal stakeholders including the regional sales team, key account managers, managing directors, and technical experts to ensure commercial success and high levels of client satisfaction.

YOUR ROLE

• Develop and implement the local sales plan in alignment with regional and global sales strategies.

• Lead the proposal process and respond to customer inquiries with high-quality, timely, and market-specific solutions tailored to the Japanese market.

• Proactively identify and engage new prospects to expand the client base and promote knoell’s full range of services.

• Maintain and strengthen relationships with existing clients, ensuring satisfaction and identifying opportunities for growth.

• Represent knoell at local industry events, seminars, and conferences to increase visibility, stay informed on market trends, and build a strong local network.

• Collaborate with relevant Japanese industry associations and regulatory bodies to enhance business development and market positioning.

• Accompany technical experts to client meetings, forums, and trade events to promote knoell’s expertise and service offerings.

• Monitor the local sales pipeline, track performance against targets, and implement corrective actions in coordination with the Regional Sales Manager.

• Act as the primary sales liaison with internal departments (e.g., operations, marketing, internal sales, technical teams) within the Japan entity.

• Share market intelligence and client feedback with internal teams to support strategic planning and service innovation.

• Ensure effective use of CRM and sales tools to maintain accurate records and enable data-driven reporting.

• Support the local implementation of global strategic initiatives such as “Future Sales @ knoell.”

YOUR PROFILE

• Degree in Natural Sciences, Business Administration, or a related field, or equivalent professional experience.

• Minimum 3 years of experience in B2B sales, scientific, or technical roles; experience selling complex service-based solutions is a strong advantage.

• Solid understanding of Japan’s regulatory and business environment; prior exposure to regulatory affairs or technical consulting is a plus.

• Proven ability to build and maintain strong client relationships, with a natural enthusiasm for business development.

• Client-focused mindset with excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving skills.

• Strong team player with the ability to thrive in a global, cross-functional environment.

• Highly organized, self-motivated, and resilient, with the ability to manage multiple priorities independently.

• Fluent in Japanese and English; confident engaging with diverse cultural and professional stakeholders.

WHAT WE OFFER

• Work in a dynamic family-owned business environment with an international team in which new ideas, creative approaches, and collaboration are valued.
• You will have the opportunity to work with market leaders in our industry.
• Development is core, and at knoell we offer various opportunities to support your personal, leadership and technical development, including English language courses to help you effectively communicate in our business language.
• knoell offers a flexible working policy and is a remote-first company, where you have the flexibility to work from home, at our headquarters in Mannheim or at one of our local offices based in your location. 
• Part-time work options are generally supported on request subject to meeting business requirements.
•  It is important to us that you have both a career and personal life – we celebrate the work-life balance of our colleagues.
• At knoell we have a global employee referral program as part of the recruitment process where you can actively participate and get rewarded for referring talent to knoell.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us at application@knoell.com. If you're looking to join a global leader in regulatory and clinical services, where you can make a real impact and contribute to a team that values your contributions, then knoell is the place for you.

We look forward to receiving your application!