Executive Director of Trade Management and Governance for Global Trade Finance Department

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

1. Team Leadership & Strategic Oversight

• Lead and manage the Trade Management & Governance team based in Singapore.
• Drive the implementation of the Target Operating Model (TOM) and ensure robust governance across trade finance products.
• Foster a high-performance culture aligned with the bank’s strategic goals.

 2. Product & Digital Governance

• Spearhead the development and governance of innovative trade finance solutions tailored for the APAC market.
• Standardize product capabilities and enhance operational efficiency.
• Collaborate closely with Tokyo Head Office and other key stakeholders to align with global governance standards, but also try to change the rules based on market standards.

 3. Target Operating Model (TOM) Implementation

• Design and implement an efficient, scalable TOM for trade finance operations across all APAC countries.
• Ensure end-to-end process optimization and consistency in service delivery.

 4. Transaction Management

• Oversee the execution and administration of trade finance transactions.
• Support team members in delivering superior customer service and achieving operational excellence.

 5. Cross-Regional Collaboration

• Coordinate with Head Office and regional GTFD teams to deliver integrated trade finance solutions.
• Leverage cross-regional synergies to enhance product offerings and client satisfaction.

6. Product Governance & Market Intelligence

• Conduct in-depth research and analysis of market trends, regulatory changes, and competitive landscapes across APAC.
• Ensure compliance and proactive adaptation of trade finance products to local requirements.

Job Requirements

• Proven leadership experience in managing high-performing teams within trade finance, with a strong focus on product development, governance, and operational excellence. 
• Comprehensive knowledge of trade finance products, including their development, structuring, commercialization, and lifecycle governance across the APAC region. 

• Strong command of transaction management, and collateral management including deal execution, documentation, and operational oversight to ensure accuracy, compliance, and timely delivery. 
• Demonstrated ability to implement and manage a Target Operating Model (TOM) that enhances operational efficiency and standardization across multiple jurisdictions. 
• Excellent stakeholder management skills, with the ability to coordinate across regional teams and Head Office functions to deliver cohesive and compliant trade finance solutions. 
• Deep understanding of APAC market dynamics, including regulatory frameworks, market trends, and customer needs, to ensure effective product governance and strategic alignment. 
• Analytical and research capabilities to support data-driven decision-making and continuous improvement in product governance and operational processes. 
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate across all levels of the organization, including senior management and external partners. 
• Minimum 8–10 years of relevant experience in trade finance, product development, or governance roles within the financial services industry. 
• Fluency in English is essential