Global Trading Director - Fish, Meat & Poultry

Our Client

Our client is a privately owned international trading group with an annual turnover exceeding US $1 billion. Operating across the fisheries, aquaculture and agriculture sectors, the business specialises in the global trade of frozen proteins (fish, meat, poultry & pork) and a new but growing category of dry commodities (including Rice & Sugar). Headquartered in the North-East of England with offices in China and Spain, the group has ambitious plans to expand its international footprint.

The Opportunity

This is a pivotal leadership appointment with significant strategic and commercial influence. Reporting to the Board, the Trading Director will be responsible for shaping and executing the global trading strategy, overseeing high-value international trading operations, and managing a team of highly experienced traders.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, plan, and implement global trading and commercial strategies aligned with corporate objectives.
• Oversee daily trading operations, leading and mentoring a high-performing team of traders both in the UK and overseas.
• Identify and secure new trading opportunities across global seafood, meat, and poultry markets.
• Explore and develop growth opportunities beyond seafood, meat and poultry.
• Manage supplier and customer relationships to ensure reliable, profitable, and sustainable partnerships.
• Conduct in-depth market and competitor analysis to guide decision-making and mitigate risks.
• Oversee the commercial P&L, focusing on margin optimisation, forecasting, and financial performance.
• Collaborate with the senior management team on strategic planning, business development, and growth initiatives.
• Ensure compliance with international trading regulations, sustainability standards, and company governance.
• Represent the business at industry events, trade shows, and client meetings worldwide.

Candidate Profile

Qualifications & Experience:

• MSc or BSc in Business, Finance, Economics, or a related discipline.
• Proven success in a senior trading leadership role, ideally within seafood, aquaculture, agriculture or similar protein markets.
• Strong track record of developing and executing profitable trading strategies.
• Expertise in supply chain, procurement, logistics, and international trade.
• Sound understanding of commercial finance, budgeting, and performance reporting.
• Experience working with ERP systems (preferably SAP).

Skills & Attributes:

• Strategic thinker with a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset.
• Exceptional negotiation and stakeholder-management skills.
• Strong leadership and mentoring ability.
• Excellent analytical, commercial, and communication skills.
• Globally minded, adaptable, and culturally aware.
• Willingness to travel frequently and represent the company internationally.

Application Instructions

Please send your CV and a brief covering note to Janet McGlaughlin at Marmion to arrange an initial confidential discussion. [contact hidden]. Alternatively, use the form on this page.