Executive Director of Global Trade Finance Department (APAC)

Headquartered in Tokyo, Sumitomo Mitsui Banking Corporation (SMBC) is a leading global financial institution and a core member of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group (SMBC Group). Built upon our rich Japanese heritage since 1876, we put our customers first and provide seamless access to, from and within the Asia Pacific region.   SMBC is one of the largest Japanese banks by assets and maintain strong credit ratings across our global integrated network.  We work closely as one SMBC Group to offer personal, corporate and investment banking services to meet the needs of our customers.

With sustainability embedded within our strategy and operations, we are committed to creating a society in which today’s generation can enjoy economic prosperity and well-being, and pass it on to future generations.

Job Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Business Development:

• Develop and execute strategies to capture Trade Finance opportunities including receivable, payable solution and conventional trade finance flows, enhancing SMBC’s deposit and FX revenue streams.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities in the diversified industries, aligning with SMBC’s strategy.

• Demonstrate strong knowledge and analytical capability to understand both sides of trade transactions and visualize the complete trade flow.
• Possess the market insight, relationship network, and skill set to originate deals independently and act as a lead agent, rather than merely participating in syndicated transactions initiated by other banks or trading firms.
• Leverage deep sector knowledge to structure bespoke trade finance solutions that meet the unique needs of clients in the diversified industries.

Credit & Deal Execution:

• Collaborate closely with relevant departments including Credit Department to ensure timely approvals and seamless execution of trade finance deals.
• Maintain high credit quality standards for corporate clients utilizing trade finance solutions, ensuring robust risk management.

Global Coordination & Client Engagement:

• Work in tandem with SMBC’s global GTFD offices to facilitate knowledge transfer and strengthen relationships with clients having global exposure.
• Act as a key liaison between regional teams and headquarters to ensure consistent client experience and product delivery.

Internal Enablement & Training:

• Conduct internal workshops and training sessions to equip front office teams with the skills to identify and prospect trade finance opportunities.
• Promote awareness and understanding of trade finance products across the organization to drive cross-selling and client value.

Product Integration & Flow Banking Optimization:

• Ensure integration of structured and conventional trade finance solutions to maximize client wallet share.
• Champion initiatives that enhance SMBC’s flow banking capabilities, including deposit mobilization and FX transaction growth.

Job Requirements

• Proven experience in trade finance, particularly within the diversified industries.
• Strong understanding of both structured and conventional trade finance products.
• Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and drive business growth across APAC.
• Deep knowledge of credit processes and risk management in trade finance.
• Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with the ability to engage across regions and functions.
• Experience in training and developing internal teams to enhance product knowledge and sales capabilities.
• Minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in trade finance or related roles within financial services.
• Proficiency in English; Japanese language skills are a plus for coordination with headquarters.