Global Trade Director, Defence & Security

Export Development Canada•Ottawa, ON

6d•Hybrid

About The Position

Join the EDC Team! At EDC, we support Canadian businesses to succeed globally. We provide the financial tools and expertise they need to explore new markets, reduce risks, all towards the goal of making Canada and the world better through trade. This role is part of the Sectors and International Advisory (SIA) team in Canada, focused on creating trade opportunities for Canadian exporters and investors. The Global Trade Director – Defence & Security (D&S) will leverage their extensive global professional network, business development skills, personal industry expertise, and knowledge of Canadian capabilities and global supply chains to generate and nurture new export business opportunities for Canadian exporters and investors. The role involves collaborating with the Global Business Development (GBD) team, which has established relationships with prominent buyers (both international & domestic) in key target markets. This role involves helping to evaluate these buyers' procurement needs and connecting them with Canadian companies offering relevant capabilities. The ideal candidate should be well-versed in industry trends, procurement approaches including ITBs, ESG issues in the sector (including export permits and controlled goods standards), have thorough knowledge of key subsectors in Canada and an understanding of how dual-use technology is being leveraged within the sector. The successful candidate should possess comprehensive expertise in the D&S value chain and demonstrate strong connections within the ecosystem. This role is responsible for identifying and collaborating with leading Canadian suppliers and service providers to promote and facilitate their engagement in international business opportunities.

Requirements

Undergraduate Degree in Business Administration, Engineering, Public Administration, Law or International Relations (or equivalent professional designation) in relevant discipline.
Minimum 8 years of combined business development and account management experience in D&S sector.
Well-developed professional network in export and/or defense related themes.
Advanced knowledge of best practices in sales and/or account management.
Strong communication skills (written, verbal, presentation).
Strong relationship management and networking skills.
Active Secret Security clearance (or ability to obtain clearance).
Ability to work legally in Canada at the time of application (Canadian Citizens or Permanent Residents).

Nice To Haves

Bilingualism (English and French).
Previous experience serving in the Canadian Armed Forces and/or the Department of National Defense.
Experience with offsets (ITB), consortia-building, or public-private innovation partnerships.

Responsibilities

Expand sales opportunities for Canadian exporters in foreign markets, develop strategies and relationships by thoroughly understanding their business challenges, procurement needs, and processes.
Collaborate with EDC’s GBD team to execute the business connections program, helping Canadian companies enter new markets by matching Canadian capabilities with the requirements of top-tier buyers and prospects.
Represent the voice of the foreign clients or prospects with regards to procurement opportunities to Canadian suppliers.
Contribute to the development of foreign buyer account plans and trade creation strategies.
Help maintain and expand EDC’s relationship network with large foreign buyers focused on senior procurement influencers and decision makers.
Build knowledge and networks, including in ESG, to help Canadian companies find the right resources and support and facilitate market entry in the sector.
Promote a unified 1 Team Canada brand in D&S and enable integration and collaboration among TCS, BDC, DND, ISED and other partners.
Accurately review how current strategies are performing within the customer and marketplace and determine options for improvement.
Develop a network within the Canadian defense ecosystem and represent the organization at sector events, professional forums, and committees.

Benefits

Competitive compensation & benefits package
Work-life balance
Hybrid work options
3 to 4 weeks paid vacation
Corporate closure period
Summer early Friday’s
No meeting Fridays
Continuous learning opportunities, including training programs, workshops and language training.
Inclusive Culture
Wellness Programs
Mental health support
Fitness programs
Community Engagement
Volunteer opportunities
Relocation assistance