About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is about leading automation projects in a manufacturing setting, focusing on integrating various systems like MES and SCADA. It's a senior management position requiring extensive experience in industrial automation and project delivery, where you'll oversee budgets, schedules, and stakeholder communications.

Good fit

Ideal candidates have over 12 years in industrial automation, with a strong background in managing large-scale projects and teams. They should be comfortable working with senior leaders and external partners, and have a hands-on approach to compliance and safety in manufacturing.

Worth noting

The role emphasizes compliance with GMP and food safety, which is critical in the food and beverage industry. Additionally, the position requires fluency in English, with Japanese preferred, indicating a need for strong communication in a diverse environment.

Job Description Summary:

Key Responsibilities

Lead end‑to‑end delivery of IT/OT automation programs, including MES, SCADA, PLC, DCS, data historians, and integration with enterprise systems.
Define automation strategy and architecture aligned with CPS standards and Industry 4.0 roadmap with clear alignment to global architecture.
Manage program scope, schedule, risks, and dependencies to ensure on‑time, on‑budget delivery.
Own automation CAPEX and OPEX planning, forecasting, and cost control.
Manage system integrators, OEMs, IT partners, and internal engineering teams.
Ensure automation solutions meet GMP, food safety, cybersecurity, and data integrity requirements.
Lead automation testing, commissioning, validation, and operational readiness.
Ensure safe execution during installation, testing, and commissioning activities.
Provide clear executive‑level reporting on progress, risks, and mitigation.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s degree in Automation, Electrical, Controls, Computer, or related Engineering discipline.
12+ years’ experience in industrial automation, IT/OT systems, or digital manufacturing.
Proven experience leading large, global automation or digital transformation programs.
Strong stakeholder management experience, including senior leaders and external vendors.
Demonstrated ownership of automation CAPEX/OPEX and delivery performance.
Hands‑on experience with validation, GMP, and food safety requirements in manufacturing environments.
Knowledge of OT cybersecurity and IT/OT convergence best practices.
Fluent in English; Japanese proficiency preferred.

Success Measures

Automation program delivered safely, on time, and within approved CAPEX/OPEX.
Stable, validated, and secure automation systems handed over to operations.
Compliance with GMP, food safety, and CPS standards.
Improved site performance through digitalization and Industry 4.0 capabilities.

Skills:

Change Management, Continual Improvement Process, Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), ISO 14001, Lean Manufacturing, Microsoft Office, Production Management, Production Processes, Quality Control (QC), Six Sigma, Standard Operating Procedure (SOP), Waterfall Model

Location(s):

Japan

City/Cities:

Shiga

Travel Required:

00% - 25%

Relocation Provided:

Job Posting End Date:

April 12, 2026

Our Purpose and Growth Culture:

We are taking deliberate action to nurture an inclusive culture that is grounded in our company purpose, to refresh the world and make a difference. We act with a growth mindset, take an expansive approach to what’s possible and believe in continuous learning to improve our business and ourselves. We focus on four key behaviors – curious, empowered, inclusive and agile – and value how we work as much as what we achieve. We believe that our culture is one of the reasons our company continues to thrive after 130+ years. Visit Our Purpose and Vision to learn more about these behaviors and how you can bring them to life in your next role at Coca-Cola.

Aplyr's read

Coca-Cola is a global leader in the beverage industry, attracting professionals passionate about brand innovation and market expansion.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•Coca-Cola's global brand recognition provides a stable platform for career growth.
•Diverse product portfolio offers opportunities in various market segments.
•Strong focus on marketing innovation supports creative career paths.

What to watch

•Intense competition in the beverage market pressures profit margins.
•Environmental concerns over plastic waste impact public perception.
•Regulatory challenges in different markets can complicate operations.

Why Coca-Cola

•Coca-Cola's extensive global distribution network is unmatched.
•The company's commitment to brand legacy drives consistent consumer loyalty.
•Innovative marketing strategies keep Coca-Cola relevant across generations.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?

About Coca-Cola

Coca-Cola

coca-colacompany.com

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The Coca-Cola Company is a multinational beverage corporation known for its flagship product, Coca-Cola, and a wide range of other non-alcoholic beverages.