Head of China Trading

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.

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.

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.