Business Development Manager– Freight Forwarding and Trade Financing

Antal International Network; Dubai; On-site; Confidential; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Business Development Manager specializing in Freight Forwarding and Trade Financing. This role involves leading strategic initiatives to identify growth opportunities and structure innovative financing solutions. You will collaborate with banks and financial institutions, manage a portfolio of clients, and drive market expansion across key regions. If you have a strong background in trade finance and a passion for enhancing global supply chains, this is an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact in a forward-thinking company.

Qualifications

• 5+ years in a managerial business development role within Freight Forwarding or trade finance.
• Proficiency in trade finance instruments like Letters of Credit and Supply Chain Finance.

Responsibilities

• Design tailored trade finance solutions aligning with market demands.
• Drive business growth in East Africa and develop market strategies for West Africa.

Skills

Business Development

Trade Finance

Market Analysis

Client Management

Negotiation Skills

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business

Degree in Finance or International Trade

Tools

Credit Profiling Models

Risk Assessment Tools

Job description

Business Development Manager– Freight Forwarding and Trade Financing

Position- Business Development Manager – Freight Forwarding and Trade Finance

Our client is a Swiss-based logistics and trade facilitation company specializing in innovative solutions to enhance efficiency and reduce financial barriers in global supply chains. Their flagship offering eliminates container deposits and trade finance solutions is designed to eliminate the need for traditional container cash deposits, thereby improving cash flow and operational efficiency for businesses involved in international trade.

Job Description

We are looking for an experienced and drivenBusiness Development Officerwith 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.
• 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.
• Minimum of 5+ years in a managerial business development role within Freight Forwarding companies, 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.

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