Business Development Executive – Trade Facilitation / Trade Finance

We are looking for an experienced and driven Business Development Officer with a minimum of five years in a managerial role, specializing in trade facilitation and trade finance. The ideal candidate will lead strategic efforts to identify growth opportunities, structure innovative financing solutions, and strengthen market presence across key global regions. This position requires a deep understanding of international trade, financial instruments, and regulatory frameworks.

Key Responsibilities

1. Trade Finance Development & Structuring

• Design and structure tailored trade finance solutions that align with regulatory requirements and market demands.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to develop credit profiling models, risk assessment tools, and financing structures for logistics and financial entities.
• Build partnerships with banks, development finance institutions (DFIs), credit insurers, and non-traditional lenders.
• Conduct ongoing market and competitor analysis to refine offerings and maintain a competitive edge.

2. Business Development & Market Expansion

• Drive business growth in East Africa by strengthening networks with logistics companies, financial entities, and regulatory bodies.
• Develop a go-to-market strategy for West Africa and Southeast Asia, identifying potential partners and market entry opportunities.
• Cultivate relationships with key players in logistics, finance, and trade facilitation across target markets.

3. Client & Stakeholder Management

• Expand and manage a portfolio of corporate and financial clients by offering tailored trade finance solutions.
• Act as the main liaison with financing partners to ensure alignment on structuring, compliance, and risk mitigation.
• Lead partnership negotiations and manage agreements that enhance service offerings.

4. Team Leadership & Management

• Provide direction, mentorship, and performance oversight to the business development team.
• Collaborate with executive leadership to align business development strategies with revenue goals.
• Coordinate with product, compliance, and operations teams to refine and scale trade finance services.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Finance, International Trade, Economics, or related fields.
• 5+ years in a managerial business development role within trade finance or related sectors.
• Proficiency in trade finance instruments such as Letters of Credit, Supply Chain Finance, and Structured Trade Finance.
• Experience working with logistics companies, financial institutions, and regulatory agencies.
• Solid background in credit risk evaluation, financial modeling, and regulatory compliance.

Preferred Skills

• Knowledge of digital platforms and tools for trade finance and risk analytics.
• Familiarity with cross-border payments, working capital solutions, and import/export financing.
• Regional expertise in East Africa with exposure to West African and Southeast Asian markets.
• Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and analytical skills.
• Willingness to travel approximately 40% of the time.