We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Head of Trading – China to establish and lead our trading activities across the Chinese market. Based in either London or Switzerland, this individual will be responsible for developing the company's China strategy, building a local commercial presence, recruiting and leading a dedicated China-focused team, and driving profitable growth across key commodity markets.
This is a highly strategic role requiring deep knowledge of the Chinese market, an established industry network, and the ability to build a trading franchise from the ground up.
The successful candidate must be a native Mandarin speaker or possess native-level Mandarin proficiency, combined with fluent English, enabling them to operate effectively with Chinese counterparties while integrating with the company's international leadership team.
Requirements
Key Responsibilities
Commercial & Trading Leadership
* Develop and execute the company's China trading strategy.
* Identify and develop new trading opportunities across China.
* Build and maintain relationships with key customers, suppliers, processors, importers, exporters, and strategic partners.
* Lead commercial negotiations and manage high-value trading relationships.
* Drive revenue growth and profitability across the China trading portfolio.
Establishing the China Platform
* Create and implement a scalable market-entry and growth strategy.
* Build the company's reputation and presence within the Chinese market.
* Identify potential office locations, strategic partnerships, and expansion opportunities where appropriate.
* Act as the primary commercial representative for China-related activities.
Team Building & Leadership
* Recruit, develop, and manage a dedicated China-focused trading team.
* Build capabilities across trading, execution, logistics, and market intelligence.
* Establish performance objectives and accountability frameworks.
* Mentor and develop future trading leaders within the business.
Market Intelligence & Strategy
* Monitor market developments, trade flows, pricing dynamics, and regulatory changes affecting China.
* Provide regular market intelligence and strategic recommendations to senior management.
* Identify emerging opportunities and risks across the region.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
* Work closely with Operations, Logistics, Risk, Finance, Compliance, and Legal teams.
* Ensure smooth execution of trading activities and adherence to company policies.
* Support the development of new products, markets, and customer segments.
Stakeholder Representation
* Represent the company at industry conferences, customer meetings, and trade events.
* Develop strong relationships with industry participants, trade associations, and key market stakeholders.
Benefits
Essential Requirements
* Native Mandarin Chinese speaker or native-level Mandarin proficiency.
* Fluent English (written and spoken).
* Significant experience in international commodity trading.
* Proven track record of developing and managing commercial relationships within China.
* Demonstrated experience building and leading trading teams.
* Strong understanding of international trade, logistics, supply chains, and risk management.
* Existing network within the Chinese commodity trading sector.
* Ability to travel regularly to China and other international markets.
Preferred Experience
* Experience within agricultural commodities, coffee, edible nuts, grains, soft commodities, energy products, or related sectors.
* Previous experience establishing a new trading desk, business unit, or regional operation.
* Experience working within an international trading house.
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