Global Trading Director - Fish, Meat & Poultry

Our client is a privately owned international trading group with an annual turnover exceedingUS $1 billion. Operating across the fisheries, aquacultural and agriculture sectors, the business specialises in the global trade of frozen proteins (fish, meat, poultry & pork) and a new but growing category of dry commodities (including Rice & Sugar). Headquartered in the North-East of England with offices inChina and Spain, the group has ambitious plans to expand its international footprint, with new offices planned in strategic markets over the coming years.

Their core trading regions include West Africa, Asia, and South America, where they have established a strong reputation for reliability, quality, and integrity. Following a sustained period of growth, the company has created a new role for a Trading Director to drive the next phase of development and ensure continued global success.

• North-East England(Based from HQ)
• Frequent International Travel
• Up to £200,000 per annumDOE
• Performance Bonus (50-100% of annual basic salary) + Relocation Assistance + Excellent Benefits Package

Relocation support, or visa sponsorship would be available for the right candidate.

Our Client

Our client is a privately owned international trading group with an annual turnover exceedingUS $1 billion. Operating across the fisheries, aquacultural and agriculture sectors, the business specialises in the global trade of frozen proteins (fish, meat, poultry & pork) and a new but growing category of dry commodities (including Rice & Sugar). Headquartered in the North-East of England with offices inChina and Spain, the group has ambitious plans to expand its international footprint, with new offices planned in strategic markets over the coming years.

Their core trading regions include West Africa, Asia, and South America, where they have established a strong reputation for reliability, quality, and integrity. Following a sustained period of growth, the company has created a new role for a Trading Director to drive the next phase of development and ensure continued global success.

The Opportunity

This is a pivotal leadership appointment with significant strategic and commercial influence. Reporting to the Board, the Trading Director will be responsible for shaping and executing the global trading strategy, overseeing high-value international trading operations, and managing a team of highly experienced traders.

The successful candidate will combine strong commercial acumen, sector knowledge, and operational leadership with the ability to inspire, influence, and deliver results in a fast-moving global environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop, plan, and implement global trading and commercial strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
• Oversee daily trading operations, leading and mentoring a high-performing team of traders both in the UK and overseas.
• Identify and secure new trading opportunities across global seafood, meat, and poultry markets.
• Explore and develop growth opportunities beyond seafood, meat and poultry
• Manage supplier and customer relationships to ensure reliable, profitable, and sustainable partnerships.
• Conduct in-depth market and competitor analysis to guide decision making and mitigate risks.
• Oversee the commercial P&L, focusing on margin optimisation, forecasting, and financial performance.
• Collaborate with the senior management team on strategic planning, business development, and growth initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with international trading regulations, sustainability standards, and company governance.
• Represent the business at industry events, trade shows, and client meetings worldwide.

Candidate Profile Qualifications & Experience:

• MSc or BSc in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related discipline.
• Proven success in asenior trading leadership role, ideally within seafood, aquaculture, agriculture or similar protein markets.
• Strong track record of developing and executing profitable trading strategies.
• Expertise in supply chain, procurement, logistics, and international trade.
• Sound understanding of commercial finance, budgeting, and performance reporting.
• Experience working with ERP systems (preferably SAP).

Skills & Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset.
• Exceptional negotiation and stakeholder-management skills.
• Strong leadership and mentoring ability.
• Excellent analytical, commercial, and communication skills.
• Globally minded, adaptable, and culturally aware.
• Willingness to travel frequently and represent the company internationally.

My client is seeking a dynamic leader who thrives in a culture that values empathy, engagement, and collaboration. Renowned for low attrition and high staff satisfaction, the successful candidate will build on this foundation by leading through example, fostering a positive, can-do attitude, and actively promoting a workplace where people feel valued, supported, and motivated to excel.

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