Managing Director - Global Chemical Exports

A confidential global chemical distribution and trading organization is expanding its sourcing and export operations, with international markets including North America, Europe, Japan, South Korea, and other higher-value regions. This senior leadership opportunity will accelerate commercial growth, strengthen supplier relationships, expand international sales, and build a high-performing regional export organization based in South Korea.

We are seeking an experienced Managing Director - Global Chemical Exports to lead expansion of a global chemical export business from South Korea. The primary focus is building international sales into higher-value markets while leveraging relationships with South Korean chemical producers, customers, logistics providers, and financial partners. The Managing Director will grow revenue, develop strategic supplier relationships, expand the international customer base, and build a commercial team as the business grows.

Key Responsibilities:

- Lead commercial growth and export operations in South Korea; develop and execute long-term regional strategies; identify new sourcing and commercial opportunities; establish strategic relationships with key manufacturers and suppliers

- Build and develop a commercial sales operation; recruit and develop additional sales professionals; build a scalable team tied to revenue generation; establish clear sales targets and accountability

- Expand exports into North America, Europe, Japan, and other global markets; develop new international customer relationships; negotiate long-term agreements with suppliers and buyers; identify new product categories with strong export potential; monitor global market trends and pricing

- Develop and maintain strategic supplier relationships in South Korea; identify competitive sourcing opportunities; negotiate pricing, supply terms, and exclusivity; convert supply opportunities into profitable business

- Recruit, mentor, and develop regional sales reps; establish sales objectives, KPIs, and performance metrics; foster a high-performance, entrepreneurial culture

- Coordinate export logistics and international shipments; develop relationships with freight forwarders and customs brokers; support inventory planning and supply chain optimization

- Drive profitable revenue growth; manage budgets and forecasts; monitor gross profit, margins, and performance

Must-Haves:

- Senior chemical trading/export, international business, and supplier-development experience

- Strong network of South Korean chemical manufacturers/producers plus international customers

- Deep knowledge of export regulations, global trade, logistics, supply chain, and commercial negotiations

- Ability to lead regional growth, sourcing strategy, and a scalable revenue-producing team

Compensation: $125,000-$175,000 USD base + performance/profit participation.