Position Overview

Japan Superconductivity Application Development Inc. (JSA) is looking for a visionary Chief Manufacturing Officer (CMO) to lead its global manufacturing strategy for the world's finest superconducting (SC) wires and applied products, as a full-time / executive-level post in Greater Kanto Area (Japan HQ-based, with strategic oversight of domestic lab in Yamanashi and global manufacturing partners). This role will design and execute the entire manufacturing roadmap—from strategic planning and facility design to process optimization and scaling for global production.

You will work closely with the CEO, CTO and R&D partners (including research institutes and public institutions) to establish JSA's core manufacturing foundation, one that transforms Japan's unique craftsmanship into a globally deployable, data-driven manufacturing model.

You will also be responsible for clarifying JSA's strategic position within the superconducting wire and applied product supply chain, and for designing manufacturing processes that embed proprietary know-how and strategic barriers to entry. As part of this mission, you will develop a fully packaged lab/showroom concept that demonstrates JSA's manufacturing excellence and serves as a strategic IP asset. You will also formulate offshore manufacturing site plans and build execution teams capable of replicating JSA's manufacturing package globally.

You will work at the forefront of SC innovation with direct impact on fusion, quantum, and medical applications, and collaborate with top researchers and engineers from research institutes and major manufacturers, either hybrid or on-site at these partners. You will also be able to experience both start-up agility and deep scientific rigor in one place, in addition to shape the future of SC technology as a core member of an emerging venture environment.

JSA is a very dynamic, flat and collaborative structure, where you can have direct communication with CEO, CTO, and COO. Based on data-driven decision-making process, you will be able to discuss with the management team based on evidence, not hierarchical order. The company culture would allow experimental mindset with trying rapid prototyping, testing, and improvement. You can execute tasks with autonomy and flexibility, achieving results-oriented work style with high ownership.

Key Responsibilities

You will lead the transformation from craftsmanship to scientific manufacturing, redefining how precision production is achieved in Japan. The site you produce will be Japan's flagship SC manufacturing hub and you will establish a new global standard for advanced materials. Your mission is to also bridge R&D, manufacturing, and business strategy in one of the world's most advanced deep-tech domains and to contribute to building a company with technological influence on par with the most transformative players in the global tech industry.

1.Manufacturing Strategy & Leadership

• Define and execute a comprehensive manufacturing strategy from R&D through mass production
• Establish Japan's flagship manufacturing hub as a national symbol of innovation and regional development
• Build and lead a world-class manufacturing team combining Japanese and global talent
• Design production systems that integrate precision craftsmanship, scientific analysis, and automation technologies
• Position JSA's manufacturing ecosystem as a core driver of Series A investment

2.Facility Development & Operations

• Lead site selection, facility planning, and setup in collaboration with government and local municipalities
• Design and implement manufacturing processes, production lines, and quality management systems
• Introduce automation, robotics, and digital monitoring technologies for precision and scalability
• Oversee safety, compliance, and environmental standards within all production facilities

3.Process Innovation & Knowledge Systemization

• Scientifically analyze and formalize Japan's ultra-fine wire drawing craftsmanship
• Develop reproducible and transferable process documentation for global use
• Integrate AI, robotics, and data analytics to achieve efficient and consistent manufacturing
• Create a digital control system enabling real-time coordination among global manufacturing bases

4.Collaboration & Cross-functional Management

• Partner with R&D, product development, and NIMS to accelerate prototype-to-product transitions
• Coordinate with government agencies, equipment suppliers, and partner institutions
• Develop and manage manufacturing budgets, timelines, and performance metrics

Essential Skills

• Experience in materials, precision processing, or production system design
• Proven track record in factory setup, production line automation, or digital manufacturing
• Knowledge of robotics, AI-based production, or industrial IoT systems
• Experience leading manufacturing organizations across multiple regions
• Experience in startup, deep-tech, or advanced R&D commercialization environments
• Effective business-level proficiency in both Japanese and English

Desired Skills

• Strategic leader who views manufacturing as a core competitive advantage
• Deep understanding of manufacturing processes, automation, or production engineering
• Strong ability to connect engineering, business, and organizational design
• Entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach and high ownership
• Excellent communication skills and ability to lead multicultural teams