APAC Management Trainee - R&D Japan

About the role

Sika, a specialty chemicals company, runs an 18-month Management Trainee Programme in its Research & Development department in the Asia Pacific region, based in Hiratsuka. The programme develops high-potential talent into future professionals and leaders through on-the-job training, formal learning, mentoring, coaching and project-based assignments. It suits fresh graduates or candidates with up to two years of relevant experience, especially those with a background in mechanical engineering, automation, robotics or a related discipline.

Key responsibilities

• Phase 1 (months 1-6): learn Sika's innovation strategy, products and manufacturing technologies, the fundamentals of automation and robotic systems, and take part in laboratory, pilot plant and production activities.
• Phase 2 (months 7-12): contribute to automation and robotics projects, conduct technology scouting and benchmark emerging automation, robotics, AI and digital manufacturing solutions, and collaborate with cross-functional teams.
• Phase 3 (months 13-18): lead a strategic automation project, work with suppliers and technology partners, and present results to management and technology leaders.
• Prepare technical reports, feasibility studies, data analyses and presentations, and help build automation roadmaps and innovation strategies.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline.
• Business-level Japanese (speaking, writing and listening); for non-Japanese speakers, N2 level or higher is required.
• Fresh graduates or candidates with up to two years of relevant experience.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills, good communication skills, and willingness to travel or take on cross-functional assignments.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint).
• Knowledge of Power BI, SQL, data analytics tools, programming languages or other digital platforms is an added advantage.

What we offer

• A structured 18-month learning journey with three phases, each with clear milestones and performance reviews.
• Mentoring and coaching from experienced managers and subject-matter experts.
• Hands-on experience, cross-functional exposure and company-wide learning and leadership programmes.
• Regular feedback, coaching and career development discussions.