We have been engaged to identify a Commercial Growth & Strategy Manager for our client, an international trading company with a global presence in over 45 countries across MENA, Europe, Sub-Saharan Africa, The Americas, Asia & Oceania,

Reporting to the Country CEO, you will be responsible for leading the development and execution of global business strategies to drive growth within international trade, export, and sales.

The ideal candidate should be able to demonstrate the ability to leverage their deep understanding of international sales processes and trade mechanisms (import/export/triple trading) and expand the company’s footprint by increasing revenue streams, and building strategic partnerships in key markets in Nigeria, North and Sub-Sahara Africa.

We are looking for someone who is not afraid to drive conversations and translate data into opportunities with innovation at the core of their thought-process.

If this is sounds like your level of expertise, then we would love to hear from you!

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Design and execute comprehensive business strategies to grow the company’s international trade and export operations across diverse regions
• Identify and evaluate new market opportunities for international trade and export, assessing market trends, competitive landscape, and regulatory environments to support market entry and expansion strategies.
• Lead the international sales process, from identifying potential customers to closing deals and managing post-sale relationships.
• Develop and refine sales strategies to optimise performance in key regions.
• Manage triple trading transactions by facilitating trade flows involving multiple countries, ensuring seamless coordination between suppliers, customers, and third-party logistics providers.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with international partners, distributors, and clients. Negotiate contracts and trade agreements to achieve optimal terms and align with the company’s strategic objectives.
• Work closely with regional teams across Africa to ensure alignment of business strategies and to address specific regional challenges and opportunities.
• Develop pricing strategies, optimize margins, and ensure that business plans are aligned with financial objectives.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with international trading, including geopolitical, currency, and regulatory risks, ensuring that business operations are secure and compliant.
• Conduct thorough market research and analysis to stay ahead of industry trends, identify emerging markets, and understand the competitive landscape in each region.

EXPERIENCE & SKILLS REQUIRED

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, International Trade, Economics, or related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in international trade, export, and business strategy roles, preferably within a global trading, export company or conglomerate.
• Demonstrate an understanding of Export/Import Management processes such as International trade regulations, documentation, tariffs, and customs procedures
• Strong understanding of international sales processes, trade laws, customs regulations, and export/import operations.
• Understanding of trade finance instruments (e.g., letters of credit, export financing).
• Extensive knowledge of key international markets, particularly in Nigeria and Sub-Saharan Africa
• Proven experience in engaging cross-functional and cross-regional teams.

SKILLS

• Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data and market insights into actionable business strategies.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and presentation skills, with the ability to build strong relationships with global stakeholders.
• In-depth knowledge of international trade regulations, compliance requirements, and risk management processes.
• Fluency in multiple languages is an asset, particularly those relevant to key markets (e.g., Igbo, Yoruba, Hausa - Arabic and French is an extreme advantage)

DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS:

• Professional certification in International Trade (e.g., CITP, CGBP).
• Experience in supply chain management and logistics for international operations.
• Familiarity with ERP and trade management software.