Korean PM Lead – Procurement & Supply Chain

About Yami:

Founded in 2013, Yami’s mission is to bring the world closer for everyone to experience and enjoy. We make it easy to discover exciting flavors and trending products from Asia. Named Inc. Magazine’s fastest growing start-up on the ”Inc. 500 List.”, we’re committed to connecting people with authentic food, beauty, home, and wellness experiences through our e-commerce platform, iOS, and Android apps.

Benefits & Compensation:

• 401(k) matching
• Health insurance: medical, vision, and dental
• $80K-110K
• Paid time off (PTO): vacation, sick, and holidays
• On-site gym/pool and game rooms
• Employee discount
• Coffee and snacks

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and optimize the full buying cycle: supplier sourcing, product selection, vendor negotiation (cost/payment), purchase order placement, and delivery coordination.
• Build and maintain strong vendor relationships with Korean partners locally and internationally, ensuring alignment on timelines, expectations, and performance.
• Collaborate closely with merchandising, marketing, and logistics teams to ensure timely product launches and inventory availability.
• Analyze inventory performance, market trends, and product performance to optimize purchasing strategies, margins, and stock efficiency.
• Negotiate direct procurement partnerships and strategic sourcing opportunities to support business objectives.
• Act as a liaison between Korean vendors, the Korean office, and U.S. headquarters to ensure seamless communication and workflow.
• Mentor and lead junior team members in procurement best practices, product knowledge, and cross-cultural collaboration.
• Drive continuous improvements in procurement processes and supply chain efficiency, supporting scalable and sustainable growth.

Key Qualifications:

• 3-5+ years of experience in procurement, sourcing, or buying, ideally in retail, e-commerce, or wholesale.
• Fluency in Korean and English (written and spoken) to manage supplier relationships and cross-functional teams effectively.
• Proven expertise in vendor negotiation, cost management, purchase planning, and operational excellence.
• Strong understanding of Korean business culture, supplier management, and negotiation practices.
• Hands-on experience in supply chain and procurement workflow optimization, including international shipments, Incoterms, and global trade compliance.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret sales and inventory data for strategic decision-making.
• Experience in supplier onboarding, term negotiation, purchase orders, lead times, and logistics coordination.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
• Proven ability to lead or mentor teams in a fast-paced, high-growth environment.
• Proficiency in Excel, ERP systems, or other inventory management tools.

Preferred Experience:

• Prior experience working with Korean brands, suppliers, or cross-border trade.
• Experience in beauty, skincare, K-beauty, K-food, or other Korean consumer categories.
• Experience localizing Korean products for U.S. or international consumers, especially within Asian communities.
• Prior experience in a global company or diverse environment closely partnered with Korean brands.
• Knowledge of customs clearance, compliance, and import/export documentation for international shipping.
• Experience leading small to mid-size procurement or merchandising teams.