Program & Transformation Director – Import & Export Operations

Role Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Program& Transformation Leader to drive large-scale operational excellence,digital transformation, and strategic growth initiatives within ourimport-export trading business (specializing in fasteners and industrialproducts).

This role blends commercial operations,supply chain optimization, technology enablement, and AI-driven transformation,ensuring scalable, efficient, and resilient trading operations across globalmarkets.

Key Responsibilities

1. Business Transformation &Operational Excellence

• Lead end-to-end transformation of import/export workflows including procurement, order management, logistics, and distribution.
• Redesign trade lifecycle processes to improve efficiency, reduce cycle times, and enhance customer experience.
• Drive automation and digitization across supply chain, documentation, and compliance processes.

2. Program & Delivery Leadership

• Manage complex, cross-functional programs involving sourcing, logistics, finance, compliance, and IT teams.
• Establish structured delivery governance, KPIs, and reporting mechanisms to ensure timely execution.
• Lead multi-vendor environments including freight forwarders, suppliers, inspection agencies, and technology partners.

3. Supply Chain & Trade Optimization

• Optimize global sourcing strategies, supplier performance, and inventory management.
• Improve demand forecasting, stock planning, and working capital efficiency.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities across procurement, freight, and warehousing.

4. Digital & AI Strategy

• Identify and implement high-impact AI and automation use cases across:
• Order processing & documentation (e.g., invoices, BL, COO)
• Demand forecasting & pricing optimization
• Customer service automation
• Drive ERP, CRM, and trade management system enhancements aligned to business goals.

5. Stakeholder & Commercial Alignment

• Partner with senior leadership to define strategic priorities and growth initiatives.
• Collaborate with sales and business development teams to improve customer onboarding and retention.
• Act as a bridge between business, operations, and technology teams.

6. Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure adherence to global trade regulations, including customs, sanctions, and export controls.
• Strengthen governance around documentation accuracy, audit readiness, and supplier compliance.
• Manage operational and financial risk across cross-border transactions.

Key Deliverables / Success Metrics

• Reduction in order-to-delivery cycle time
• Improvement in inventory turnover & working capital
• Cost savings across procurement and logistics
• Increased automation and reduction in manual processes
• Enhanced customer satisfaction and order accuracy

Required Qualifications & Experience

Experience

• 15+ years in program management, transformation, or operations leadership
• Strong exposure to:
• Import/export trading, supply chain, or manufacturing ecosystems
• Multi-country operations and vendor management
• Proven track record of delivering large-scale transformation initiatives

Skills

• Program Leadership: Multi-stakeholder program delivery, governance, and execution
• Supply Chain Expertise: Procurement, logistics, inventory, and trade operations
• Digital Transformation: ERP systems, automation, and data-driven decision making
• AI & Innovation: Ability to identify and implement practical AI use cases
• Stakeholder Management: Executive communication and cross-functional leadership

Preferred

• Exposure to ERP platforms (SAP, Oracle, or similar)
• Background in consulting or transformation roles
• Familiarity with trade compliance frameworks (e.g., Incoterms, customs regulations)
• Good to have experience in fasteners,industrial products, or engineering goods trading