Shin Hotehama - Traffic Manager - Logistics Readiness Center (LRC) Honshu, 403d Army Field Support Brigade (AFSB)

Summary

Dynamic and trusted logistics professional with eight years of experience as a Traffic Manager for the U.S. Army in Japan, demonstrating proven leadership capabilities through full operational command of the Area Transportation Office (ATO). Expertise includes program oversight, strategic traffic management, and the secure transport of Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives (AA&E), along with a strong track record in developing and mentoring team members, resulting in multiple brigade-level awards. Recognized for exceptional cross-cultural communication skills and a mission-focused approach to logistics, with a strong desire to transition into a civilian leadership role within the Department of Defense through the DCELP. Committed to driving operational excellence and fostering collaborative environments that enhance team performance and mission success.

Overview

9

years of professional experience

Work History

Traffic Manager

Logistics Readiness Center (LRC) Honshu, 403d Army Field Support Brigade (AFSB)

Kure, Japan

01.2017 - Current

Serves as the Principal Assistant to the Area Transportation Office (ATO) Chief, providing expert technical guidance and operational leadership for all transportation logistics at US Army Kure Pier 6.
Assumes full operational responsibility for the ATO in the Chief's absence, directing all activities and making key decisions to ensure 100% operational continuity.
Leads weekly internal meetings to synchronize team efforts, delegate tasks, and drive organizational goals.
Serves as the primary ATO representative at installation-level meetings, effectively communicating office positions and requirements.
Provides critical advice and guidance to senior leadership on personnel matters and local Japanese business customs, demonstrating strategic cross-cultural insight.
Acts as a key liaison and problem-solver between commands and divisions to ensure smooth logistics support.
Functions as a principal planner in developing traffic management plans, policies, and procedures to enhance the efficiency of cargo and passenger movements.
Administers and performs Quality Assurance Evaluation (QAE) for multiple high-value transportation contracts, ensuring contractor accountability and documenting performance.
Exercises signatory authority on critical official documents, including shipping manifests, military driver's licenses, and transportation payment approvals.
Serves as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) and instructor on the compliant land transportation of Arms, Ammunition, and Explosives (AA&E) for U.S. military units across Japan.
Manages all liaison and coordination with Host Nation authorities, including the Prefectural Public Safety Committee (Police) and the Chugoku-Shikoku Defense Bureau (CSDB), to ensure the safe passage of sensitive movements.
Develops tailored transportation solutions for military personnel, enabling units to meet mission readiness and operational objectives through the confident and appropriate transport of munitions.
Managed all domestic land transportation logistics from the US Army Kawakami and Hiro Ammunition Depots in direct support of high-profile international and bilateral exercises, including Operation Pathways (Orient Shield, Cobra Gold, Garuda Shield, Balikatan, Talisman Sabre), Vigilant Isles, Keen Sword, and Northwind.
Supervisor: Mr. Gregory L. Donald II (DSN 315-262-3796) | Contact: Yes
Leadership and Team Development Achievements:
Employee of the Year & Quarter: Successfully nominated a high-performing Vehicle Dispatcher who earned the Civilian Service Achievement Medal and was subsequently named the 403d AFSB Employee of the 4th Quarter, FY25.
Journey to Leadership (JTL) Program: Successfully advocated for an Administrative Specialist to attend the competitive FY25 JTL Tier 1 training. This employee was one of only two Japanese local nationals selected Army-wide, and I was the only foreign national supervisor to have an employee chosen.

Education

Master of Arts - English Language

Nagoya Gakuin Univeristy Graduate School

Nagoya-shi, Japan

09-2006

Bachelor of Arts - English Language And Literature

Kyoto University of Foreign Studies

Kyoto-shi, Japan

03-1997

Skills

Organizational Leadership: Acting Office Chief, Decision Making, Team Synchronization, Personnel Mentorship, Cross-Cultural Advisory, Employee Development & Recognition
Logistics & Program Management: Strategic Traffic Management, Program & Contract Oversight, Quality Assurance (QAE), AA&E Transportation SME, Host Nation Liaison, Mission Support Planning
Regulatory & Compliance: Shipping Manifests, Payment Approvals, Military Driver Licensing, Japanese Transportation & Safety Regulations
Licenses & Certifications: Licensed Guide Interpreter (English), Licensed Commercial Fleet Manager (Freight & Passenger), Commercial Driver License (Class 2)

Problem-solving abilities
Multitasking Abilities
Adaptability and flexibility
Decision-making

Awards

Awards

Civilian Service Commendation Medal (Employee of the Year, FY2024)

Civilian Service Commendation Medal (Employee of the Year, FY2021)

Civilian Service Achievement Medal (Employee of the 1st Quarter, FY2024)

Civilian Service Achievement Medal (Employee of the 4th Quarter, FY2021)

Timeline