Director, Canadian Engagement %26 Strategy - Indo-Pacific

Export Development Canada; Ottawa; Hybrid; CAD 127,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

A Canadian financial Crown corporation seeks a Director for Canadian Engagement & Strategy in the Indo-Pacific. This role involves developing business strategies, fostering relationships, and leading cross-functional teams to empower Canadian exporters. The ideal candidate has extensive experience in business development, preferably with a focus on international trade, and is bilingual in English and French.

Benefits

Comprehensive benefits package

Work-life balance

Professional development opportunities

Inclusive culture

Wellness programs

Community engagement

Qualifications

• 10 years of proven experience in business development or export strategy.
• 3-5 years of demonstrated leadership in managing diverse teams.
• Exceptional relationship-building and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Design and implement strategic business development plans.
• Cultivate and sustain strong relationships with Canadian exporters and partners.
• Lead and inspire cross-functional teams across diverse markets.

Skills

Business development

International trade

Stakeholder engagement

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Bilingual (English and French)

Education

University degree in business or related area

Job description

Overview

Join the EDC Team!

At EDC, we support Canadian businesses to succeed globally. We provide the financial tools and expertise they need to explore new markets, reduce risks, all towards the goal of making Canada and the world better through trade.

Position

Director, Canadian Engagement & Strategy Indo-Pacific

Employment Type

Permanent

Compensation Details

• Director Indo Pac Domestic Ops 20: Salaries typically range from $127,380 to $169,838 annually, based on qualifications and experiences, plus a performance-based incentive.

Location

• Export Development Canada operates in a hybrid work environment, currently requiring employees to work in the office 3 days per week. (subject to change)
• This role can be performed from EDC’s headquarters in Ottawa
• Relocation assistance is available for candidates who meet the eligibility criteria.

About EDC

Export Development Canada (EDC) empowers Canadian businesses to succeed globally. As a financial Crown corporation, we offer innovative financial solutions and expert insights to help businesses explore new markets, mitigate risks, and achieve growth.

Why Join EDC

• Comprehensive Benefits: EDC offers a competitive compensation & benefits package, work-life balance, and the opportunity to help make Canada and the world better through trade.
• Work-Life Balance: We offer hybrid work options, 3 to 4 weeks paid vacation, a corporate closure period, summer early Fridays, and no meeting Fridays.
• Professional Development: Continuous learning opportunities, including training programs, workshops and language training.
• Inclusive Culture: A diverse and inclusive workplace that champions employment equity and values diversity of ideas, strengths, and backgrounds.
• Wellness Programs: Access to wellness initiatives, mental health support, and fitness programs.
• Community Engagement: Volunteer opportunities and social responsibility programs.

Team Overview

Are you a strategic leader with a passion for international business and customer success? As the Director, Canadian Engagement & Strategy - Indo-Pacific you will lead initiatives that empower Canadian exporters to thrive in global markets—especially within the Indo-Pacific region. This role is about building long-term relationships, fostering innovation, and driving impact.

You’ll be responsible for identifying and executing growth strategies, cultivating high-performing teams, and delivering customer-centric solutions that create lasting value. This includes collaborating with stakeholders across multiple time zones, representing EDC on panels and forums, and building strategic relationships that enhance Canada’s presence and influence in one of the world’s most important economic regions.

What you will be doing

• Design and implement strategic business development plans that strengthen Canada’s engagement and connectivity within the Indo-Pacific region—translating high-level vision into tangible, impactful outcomes.
• Cultivate and sustain strong relationships with Canadian exporters, Global Affairs Canada (GAC), Ambassador Core, and key internal and external partners by actively participating in panels, stakeholder engagements, and collaborative initiatives
• Lead and inspire cross-functional teams across diverse geographic markets and business lines—including insurance, guarantees, and other financial solutions—fostering an inclusive and empowering environment.
• Navigate complex and politically sensitive challenges—internally and externally—with integrity and strategic foresight, engaging with governments as needed.
• Champion innovation and continuous improvement by identifying market and solution gaps, leveraging customer feedback to develop and implement targeted strategies that drive measurable results.
• Thrive in dynamic environments by embracing change and uncertainty with resilience and a growth mindset.
• Promote inclusion by valuing diverse perspectives and ensuring insights from in-market teams inform how we do business in Canada.
• Coach and develop talent, building long-term succession plans and supporting career growth across the team.

What we are looking for

• University degree in business or a related area, or an equivalent combination of education, training and experience
• 10 years of proven experience in business development, international trade, or export strategy
• 3-5 years of demonstrated leadership in managing diverse, high-performing teams
• Strong strategic thinking and ability to translate vision into execution
• Exceptional relationship-building and stakeholder engagement skills
• Deep understanding of the Indo-Pacific region’s economic and cultural landscape
• Lead with conviction and communicate with clarity and purpose—effective in conveying difficult messages and aligning teams through change
• Navigate EDC’s internal landscape by engaging stakeholders, building alignment, and negotiating with influence
• Knowledge of financing and insurance products
• Bilingual (English and French)

What will make you stand out

• Experience working with Canadian exporters or in a trade-focused organization
• Knowledge of EDC’s mandate, services, and customer base
• Fluency in languages relevant to the Indo-Pacific region
• Familiarity with government, policy, or international relations in the region
• Eligibility: EDC is committed to fair employment practices and preference will be given to candidates eligible to work in Canada. Must meet government security screening requirements.

Ready to make a difference? This is your chance to join a dynamic, growing team and leave your mark on our organization, development finance, and the world.

Apply today! To learn more about EDC, visit https://www.edc.ca

EDC's Commitment to Employment Equity

Export Development Canada (EDC) is dedicated to fostering employment equity and building a diverse workforce. We are committed to creating a safe and inclusive environment that respects people from all cultures, backgrounds, and abilities. At EDC, we nurture a culture of inclusion and belonging where everyone has equal opportunity to grow, develop, succeed, and be their truest selves.

We actively encourage applications from women, Indigenous peoples, visible minorities, persons with disabilities, and members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community.

Your application must clearly demonstrate how you meet all the requirements. We thank all applicants for their interest in a career at EDC; however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Please note that qualified candidates may be considered for similar roles at this level within EDC.

Should you require any accommodation during the recruitment and selection process, please contact the Recruitment team at [e-mail]