Head of Exports & Trading

About the role

The Head of Exports & Trading will lead the company’s export and trading activities for FMCG products from our Colombo office. This senior position is responsible for expanding into new international markets, building and managing distributor networks, and driving profitable growth across the export portfolio.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive export and trading strategy aligned with corporate objectives.
• Identify, evaluate, and enter new international markets for FMCG, food‑beverage, dairy and commodity products.
• Build, negotiate and maintain relationships with distributors, agents, and 3rd‑party manufacturers.
• Oversee import, export and re‑export operations, ensuring compliance with all trade regulations.
• Manage commercial P&L, margins, working capital, and customer credit risk.
• Lead supplier negotiations and contract management to optimise cost and service levels.
• Monitor market trends, competitive activity and regulatory changes to inform strategic decisions.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Trade, Marketing, Supply Chain, Food Science, Finance or a related field (MBA or postgraduate qualification is a plus).
• Minimum 10 years of experience in exports, international business, trading, FMCG, food‑beverage, dairy or commodities.
• Proven track record of opening new markets, building distributor networks and scaling international business.
• Experience managing commercial P&L, margins, working capital and supplier negotiations.
• Strong network of international buyers, distributors, suppliers and agents.

Required skills

• Export regulations and international trade compliance.
• P&L management and margin analysis.
• Working capital and credit risk management.
• Supplier and distributor negotiation.
• Market entry and expansion strategy.