*Japanese Bilingual is a MUST
Location: Gardena, CA | 100% On-site
Position: Sales Associate
Industry: Textile / Fashion
Status: Full-time, Non-Exempt
Compensation: $55,000 – $65,000/year + Overtime Pay
Summary
A Japanese textile company specializing in premium denim and fashion fabrics is seeking a Japanese-English bilingual Sales Associate to support business development across North America, Europe, and Asia. This position focuses on fabric sales to apparel brands, manufacturers, and fashion companies, while also supporting wholesale sales activities for the company's original apparel brands. The company is looking for a motivated individual with strong communication skills and a genuine interest in the fashion industry. Previous textile industry experience is not required. Training will be provided for candidates with the right attitude, professionalism, and long-term growth potential.
Key Responsibilities
Sales & Business Development
- Develop new business opportunities with apparel brands, manufacturers, and fashion-related companies
- Manage and grow relationships with existing customers
- Promote fabric collections and product offerings to customers in the U.S., Europe, and Asia
- Support wholesale sales activities for the company's original apparel brands
- Identify market trends and customer needs to support business growth
Customer & Project Coordination
- Coordinate with customers regarding product inquiries, pricing, samples, and orders
- Work closely with the Japan-based team on fabric development and customer requests
- Process and manage customer orders using the company ERP system
- Follow up on projects from product introduction through order completion
Trade Shows & Marketing Support
- Assist with planning and attending industry trade shows and exhibitions
- Prepare sales materials, line sheets, and promotional content
International Business Development
- Travel domestically and internationally to meet customers and attend industry events
- Develop relationships with clients throughout North America, Europe, and Asia
Qualifications
Required
- Japanese/English bilingual communication skills
- Ability to read and understand Japanese business documents
- Strong communication and relationship-building skills
- Self-motivated and proactive personality
- Willingness to travel frequently, including international travel
- Ability to occasionally lift and carry fabric samples and product materials
- Valid driver's license
Preferred
- Experience in sales, account management, or business development
- Interest in fashion, apparel, textiles, or consumer products
- Experience attending trade shows or customer-facing events
- Experience with wholesale, apparel, or textile businesses
Ideal Candidate
- Enjoys meeting new people and building long-term relationships
- Has a strong interest in the fashion and apparel industry
- Takes initiative and enjoys developing new business opportunities
- Is willing to learn a specialized industry from the ground up
- Has leadership potential and desires future career growth into management
