Noriko Kanakubo

[Supply Chain Management]

• Led strategic initiatives to enhance operational efficiency across pharmaceutical supply chain processes in Asia Pacific region (APAC).
• Trained staff with no supply chain experience mainly by OJT to ensure stable supply across APAC.
• Developed and implemented supply chain strategies to optimize inventory management and reduce costs.
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement comprehensive market entry strategies for new product launches in APAC.
• Fostered relationships with suppliers to negotiate favorable terms, ensuring reliable product availability and cost savings.
• Drove continuous improvement initiatives leveraging data analysis and applicable FTA/EPA.
• Identified and mitigated supply chain risks, ensuring business continuity and compliance with regulations.

[Human Resources]

• Developed and implemented strategic HR initiatives to enhance employee engagement and retention.
• Led talent acquisition processes in Singapore and Malaysia, ensuring alignment with organizational goals and culture.
• Conducted comprehensive training programs to enhance workforce skills of management members.

[IT]

• Managed and maintained Asia Pacific entities’ IT system.
• Collaborated with stakeholders to identify technology needs and optimize resource allocation.
• Enhanced IT infrastructure by implementing strategic technology upgrades and streamlining system processes, as per the HQ's directions.

[Business Management]

• Oversaw APAC consolidated budget management and resource allocation to align projects with organizational goals and priorities.
• Facilitated cross-functional collaboration for improved decision-making processes within the organization.

[Supply Chain Management]

• Led demand forecasting and supply planning across multiple regions (APAC, Europe, US etc.)
• Aligned supply plan with global commercial strategies and regional requirements.
• Monitored demand fluctuations and adjusted supply strategies to ensure the product supply globally.
• Ensure supplier compliance with international regulatory and quality standards.
• Oversaw inventory positioning across global distribution hubs.
• Got audited by audit firms.
• Identified and mitigated global supply chain risks (e.g., geopolitical issues, COVID, temperature excursions)
• Collaborated with internal/external stakeholders (e.g., Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance, Commercial) to ensure product supply in accordance with the applicable regulations and maintain the appropriate stock level.
• Led cross-functional team to supply products under new company name implemented in April 2022, which involved but not limited to Regulatory Affairs, Quality Assurance and Manufacturing teams.

[International Business Management]

• Led cross-functional teams to establish Malaysia subsidiary.
• Led cross-functional teams to drastically change our business model in APAC to maximize profits by operating a wider range of businesses.
• Managed APAC budgets effectively, ensuring optimal financial performance while investing in necessary resources for business growth.

Led end-to-end business operations with partners in Thailand, Indonesia, and Hong Kong, encompassing business development, contract management, regulatory submissions, and supply chain establishment to support sustainable growth through strategic partnerships and market expansion.

Drove business development in China with multiple business partners, coordinated cross-functional and external partners to successfully achieve the first product shipment.

Conducted research and development activities in organic chemistry to support the discovery and development of pharmaceutical compounds. The role involved designing and executing synthetic routes, analyzing results, and collaborating with cross-functional teams.