Deputy General Manager

As a proxy to the GM with the main focus on new food business development in the Asia Pacific region, you will be accountable for the following key responsibilities and outcomes:

1. Strategic Planning & Reporting

- Develop and implement key product strategies tailored to the AP market.

- Establish quantitative business plans for the department and collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.

- Conduct timely analysis and reporting on business performance and progress along with the importance for the organization.

2. Business Execution

- Manage and optimize trading and logistics frameworks to execute new business in AP.

3. Organizational Development and Governance

- Ensure high-quality output as a department through guiding and coaching teams and developing their talents.

- Drive cross-functional collaboration to support business expansion.

- Ensure adherence to trade compliance regulations and implement effective credit risk management protocols.

Job Requirements

1. Demonstrates a strong personal commitment to upholding compliance standards and ethical business practices.

2. Leadership and Organizational Drive

- Possesses ambition and a proactive mindset to lead and manage organizational initiatives.

- Capable of supporting the General Manager's responsibilities and driving strategic execution.

3. Industry Experience

- 8-12 years in food trading 4+ years in new business development and team leadership.

- Proven track record launching/scaling imported food lines in SG/SEA (supplier qualification pilot scale) with measurable results.

- Import compliance: Incoterms, HS codes, customs/COO docs, FTAs Singapore SFA licensing, food safety, labeling.

- Supplier sourcing & development (audits, contracts/SLAs, costing) and risk mitigation (diversification, contingency).

- Cold chain & logistics: temperature control, 3PL/forwarders, bonded storage, shelflife balance service, cost, working capital.

- Partnerships with manufacturers/copackers, retailers (listing negotiations), and HORECA program development.

- Commercial analytics & category management (pricing, trade terms, promotions) comfort with P&L and stagegate execution.

- Quality/incident management (recalls, nonconformance RCA & CAPA).

- Cross-Regional Collaboration: Strong capability to negotiate and influence on related departments and geographies to align trading strategies and business objectives.

- Leadership & Business Development: Demonstrated success in leading initiatives that expand product portfolios and strengthen strategic partnerships.

4. Language and Cultural Proficiency

- Fluency in spoken and written English and Japanese to liaise with Japan-based HQ teams and Japanese partners as part of core job responsibilities.

- Experience working with Japanese organisations, including familiarity with Japanese business practices and professional etiquette.

5. Talent Development

- Ability to identify and nurture the potential of team members across divisions, fostering their professional growth and contribution to the organization.