Matthew Chong

Assistant Sales Manager @ TOKYO FOOD CO., LTD

About

After graduating from Auckland University of Technology with a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Japanese, I travelled to Japan to work as an English language teacher in Ishikawa Prefecture and Aichi Prefecture. After two years of working and travelling throughout the country, I returned to New Zealand to complete a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching at University of Auckland.I then spent seven years teaching at Balmoral School, where I also served as the school’s cultural exchange coordinator with a sister school in Seto, leading exchange trips to Japan in 2010, 2012, and 2014. Alongside teaching, I was involved in music, media, and school marketing projects, including the production of a promotional video for the school.In 2015, I moved to Tokyo to work for an international car export company, supporting the New Zealand market in the sale and export of used vehicles and auto parts. After returning to Auckland in 2018, I continued working in the automotive industry as a local sales agent.Since January 2023, I have been working for a Japanese food and beverage import and distribution company, where I am currently the Assistant Sales Manager for the Retail Division, working directly with supermarkets, oil banners, and liquor stores across New Zealand.

Country

City

New Zealand

Industry

Retail

Skill

Account Management, Data Analysis, Sales, Export, Logistics, Qualified Teacher, Communication, Bilingual Communications, Cross-cultural Communication Skills, Information Communication Technology, Computer Proficiency, Systematic Approach, Grasp New Concepts Quickly, Teamwork, Easily Adaptable, Skilled Multi-tasker, Common Sense, Video Editing, Photography, Music

Experience

Assistant Sales Manager

TOKYO FOOD CO., LTD

2023-1 - Present · 3 yrs 9 mos

Auckland, New Zealand

• Manage B2B sales for prominent Japanese brands including Hi-Chew, Kewpie, Ajinomoto and Lotte. • Collaborate directly with Category Managers in New Zealand and international suppliers. • Plan and execute promotional campaigns to enhance brand awareness and drive sales growth. • Plan, organise and execute exhibition stands at the Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch Food Shows. • Contribute to the expansion of TOKYO FOOD CO., LTD's market presence.

Local Sales Agent

BE FORWARD CO.,LTD.

2018-10 - 2022-11 · 4 yrs 2 mos

Auckland, New Zealand

• Managed the sale and export of used motor vehicles and auto parts from Japan to New Zealand. • Conducted vehicle purchasing from auctions to meet customer demands. • Developed business relationships and managed customer accounts effectively. • Utilized bilingual communication skills in English and Japanese to enhance client interactions.

Sales Representative

BE FORWARD CO.,LTD.

2015-8 - 2018-9 · 3 yrs 2 mos

Tokyo, Japan

• Managed the sale and export of used motor vehicles and auto parts from Japan to New Zealand. • Conducted vehicle purchasing from auctions, ensuring quality and value. • Oversaw customer account and stock management, enhancing operational efficiency. • Communicated effectively in both English and Japanese to foster strong client relationships.

Classroom Teacher/ICT Leader

Balmoral Intermediate School

2008-1 - 2014-12 · 7 yrs

Auckland, New Zealand

- Planning and teaching lessons in accordance with the New Zealand Curriculum and following the Balmoral Curriculum Model. Extra Responsibilities: - ICT Curriculum Development Leader - Music Department Tutor - Bands - Cultural Exchange Coordinator - Japanese Sister School - Established relationship and lead tour groups to Japan - School Magazine Editor - School Event Photographer

ESL Teacher

Genso Academy

2004-10 - 2006-10 · 2 yrs 1 mo

Nagoya, Aichi, Japan

- Planning and teaching weekly English lessons in accordance with Genso’s curriculum. - Creating activities and making resources to enhance the quality of my lessons and make them more enjoyable for the students.

Education

University of Auckland

Elementary Education and Teaching

2007 - 2007

During my Graduate Diploma I studied a range of teaching techniques and curriculum content and developed my own teaching philosophy. In addition to university study I also completed 3 in-school placements where I planned and taught lessons.

Auckland University of Technology

Japanese

2000 - 2003 · 3 yrs

During my Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in Japanese I undertook intensive study of the Japanese language and culture and also learnt to read and write Japanese Kanji. In addition to Japanese I also studied papers in International Business and Communications.