About the Client:
Our client is a leading integrated oil palm company with a strong upstream presence across the Southeast Asia region. As part of their strategic growth plan, they are looking to expand into the downstream segment to capture more value across the palm oil supply chain. This includes investments in refining, oleochemicals, specialty fats, and consumer goods.
The client is seeking a dynamic, commercially astute, and strategically minded Business Development Director to lead this transformation.
About the Role:
The Business Development Director will be responsible for conceptualizing, leading, and executing the company's downstream expansion strategy. This includes identifying viable business opportunities, establishing partnerships, developing new revenue streams, and ensuring the integration of downstream operations with the company's existing upstream assets.
The ideal candidate has deep knowledge of the palm oil value chain, strong commercial acumen, and proven experience in building and scaling new ventures within agribusiness, commodities, or FMCG sectors.
About the Responsibilities:
Strategic Development & Execution
- Develop and implement a comprehensive downstream growth strategy, covering refining, processing, and market entry into new value-added products.
- Conduct market analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and threats in the global palm oil and derivative markets
- Evaluate vertical integration opportunities (e.g. refineries, biodiesel, oleochemicals, consumer products).
- Prepare business cases, feasibility studies, and investment proposals for board approval.
Partnerships & Investments
- Identify and negotiate strategic partnerships, joint ventures, and M&A opportunities with local and international players.
- Engage with potential investors, off-takers, technology providers, and government agencies.
- Build relationships with key stakeholders in the palm oil value chain (refiners, traders, brands, regulatory bodies).
Operational & Commercial Leadership
- Oversee project development from concept through execution and commissioning.
- Work closely with finance, operations, and sustainability teams to ensure projects are viable, responsible, and aligned with corporate values.
- Lead commercial negotiations including supply agreements, offtake contracts, and joint development arrangements.
Team Leadership & Organizational Development
- Build and lead a business development and downstream commercial team.
- Establish performance KPIs, drive accountability, and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement.
About the Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Engineering, Economics, or related field. MBA or relevant postgraduate qualification preferred.
- Minimum 10 - 15 years of relevant experience. Experience in agribusiness, palm oil, edible oils and private equity a plus.
- Strong financial modeling, deal structuring, and negotiation skills.
- Experience managing cross-functional teams and working across multiple geographies.
- Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to operate in dynamic, emerging market environments.
- Track record of leading downstream expansion or greenfield projects is an advantage.
- Knowledge of sustainability standards (RSPO, ISCC, etc.) is an advantage.
Please apply directly through the mycareersfuture portal or to [Confidential Information].
Due to the high volume of applications received during this period, we seek your understanding that we will only be contacting shortlisted candidates.
