Executive Director, Product Development & Governance Global Trade Finance Department

Oversee the Product Development & Governance Group (PDG) in the APAC region, collaborating with the marketing team to enhance product offerings and refine brand positioning.

Facilitate global and regional product development and governance efforts, emphasizing New Product Development (NPD), Operations & Development (O&D), and the advancement of Digital Trade Finance solutions.

Lead the transformation initiatives for the Global Trade Finance Department to boost organizational performance and increase operational efficiency and promote to build up most efficient Operating Target Model for APAC trade finance products.

Take a lead to strengthen product governance within the department and other APAC coverage countries, for various trade related products.

Job Responsibilities

• Team Leadership:

Lead and manage the Product Development & Governance Group (PDG) in the APAC located in Singapore, Product development, Digital development, Product Governance, Strucutre Paper, Transaction Management and Commercialisation of trade finance products,

• Product / Digital Development:

Lead the development of innovative trade finance solutions customized for the APAC market, focusing on product development and the integration of digital solutions. Work collaboratively with third-party vendors to enhance and expand trade finance offerings.

• Transaction Mangement:

Oversee the administration related to processing and executing deals, while supporting other team members to enhance customer service and maximize performance as a cohesive team within SMBC.

• Cross-Regional Solutions / Coordination and Collaboration:

Provide comprehensive trade finance solutions by product edge, through cross-regional collaboration, ensuring effective coordination with Head Office departments and relevant divisions in Japan and the APAC region.

• Product Governance :

Conduct product governence thorough research and analysis of each countries market trends, rules and regulation,

Job Requirements

• Proven experience in leading and managing teams, specifically within Product Development and Governance in trade finance area.
• Strong managerial skills to oversee the Product Development & Governance Group (PDG) based in Singapore, including expertise in product development, digital development, governance, structure papers, transaction management, and commercialization of trade finance products.
• Demonstrated ability to lead the development of innovative trade finance solutions tailored to the APAC market.
• Experience in integrating digital solutions into product offerings, with a track record of successful collaboration with third-party vendors to enhance trade finance services.
• In-depth understanding of transaction management processes related to deal execution and administration.
• Ability to support team members in delivering exceptional customer service and enhancing overall team performance within SMBC.
• Strong coordination and collaboration skills to provide comprehensive trade finance solutions through cross-regional teamwork.
• Extensive knowledge of market trends, rules, and regulations affecting trade finance across different APAC countries.
• Strong analytical skills to conduct thorough research and analysis, ensuring effective product governance.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of experience in product development, governance, or related roles within the financial services sector.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with stakeholders at all levels.
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
• Demonstrated ability to lead the development of innovative trade finance solutions tailored to the APAC market.
• Excellent communication and language skills in English; proficiency in Japanese is advantageous as this role needs to coordinate and collaborate cross regionally including Businesss Offices and Head Office in Japan.