Director of Global Trade and SME Internationalisation

We have an urgent requirement for Director of Global Trade and SME Internationalisation for the client in Dubai, UAE
 

SME Export Readiness Diagnostics: build diagnostic tools auditing product, pricing, branding, certifications, and supply chain readiness is MUST

Cross-Border Regulatory & Logistics Architecture: Deep expertise in international trade compliance, customs regulations, non-tariff barriers, and global logistics is MUST

Experience building and activating high-level networks across government trade agencies, chambers, and global organizations is MUST  

identify high-potential sectors, set selection criteria for trade missions, and connect SMEs with international buyers is Must

strategic and experienced Head of Global Markets and Expansion to lead the development of programs, frameworks, and global partnerships. You will spearhead initiatives to prepare local Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) for international expansion, identify high-potential global markets, and establish robust pathways to ensure successful market entry and sustainable cross-border growth.

Key Responsibilities

Internationalisation Readiness & Framework Development

• Design and implement comprehensive readiness models, diagnostic tools, and frameworks to evaluate SME export preparedness across product readiness, tiered pricing structures, global branding, quality certifications, complex logistics, and international regulatory compliance.


• Create standardised playbooks, operational guidelines, and strategic processes for the Global Markets and Expansion function while benchmarking world-class international trade models.


• Transition high-potential SMEs smoothly from readiness assessment programs into active global market access opportunities.

Global Market Access & Trade Execution

• Identify and prioritise international markets and high-growth sectors that tightly align with Dubai's broader economic diversification and strategic priorities.


• Establish transparent evaluation criteria for selecting SMEs to participate in international trade missions, global exhibitions, and high-profile export showcases.


• Facilitate high-value commercial matchmaking by connecting export-ready SMEs with vetted international buyers, regional distributors, and strategic trade partners.


• Provide post-entry advisory and support mechanisms to help local businesses sustain their international footprint, navigate trade friction, and scale operations abroad.

Strategic Partnerships & Ecosystem Building

• Forge, cultivate, and manage high-level partnerships with global trade agencies, bilateral business councils, chambers of commerce, and international economic organisations.


• Leverage Dubai SME's existing international network to unlock new trade corridors, commercial channels, and cross-border collaborative ventures.


• Activate targeted trade opportunities through joint initiatives with global stakeholders.

Mandatory Skill Sets & Qualifications

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Business Administration, Economics, International Relations, Global Trade, Strategy, or a related discipline (Master's degree or MBA is strongly preferred).

Professional Experience

• Minimum 12 years of progressive experience in international business development, export promotion, global market expansion, or SME internationalisation.


• Demonstrated success in designing and implementing strategic frameworks, market entry playbooks, and readiness assessment models for commercial entities or government programs.


• Hands-on expertise evaluating business models, supply chains, and products for export readiness.


• Extensive background working collaboratively with government entities, diplomatic missions, trade promotion agencies, or chambers of commerce.