Head of Middle East G&O

Head of Middle East G&O – COFCO International

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The Head of Middle East will lead and expand all commercial distribution activities across the Middle East region. This role is responsible for defining the strategy, managing key customer relationships, executing and optimizing trading flows, and ensuring profitable, well‑managed positions within the company’s global trading framework. The ideal candidate combines deep market knowledge, strong risk management skills, and strategic leadership capabilities.

• Define the business plan for G&O in the Middle East in coordination with the regional MENA Profit & Loss (P&L) desk.
• Identify, establish, and cultivate long‑term relationships with key customers, partners, and stakeholders across the region.
• Explore and analyse new market segments, trade corridors, and investment opportunities aligned with regional and global strategy.
• Establish pricing for all G&O business activities, ensuring competitiveness and alignment with global market dynamics.
• Execute the business plan by pre‑positioning in physical (cash) markets, optimizing origination and destination flows.
• Trade around physical flows to enhance margins and manage exposure intelligently.
• Oversee position management, P&L performance, and the correct execution of each transaction, ensuring adherence to internal risk frameworks.
• Supervise and review fundamental analysis, including supply & demand (S&D), quality dynamics, and other key market drivers for Grains & Oilseeds.
• Monitor macroeconomic, geopolitical, and logistical factors impacting the Middle East’s G&O trade flows.
• Identify synergies with destination offices and contribute insights to global trading strategy.
• Capture and optimize logistics efficiencies across regions, ensuring cost‑effective supply chains and timely delivery.
• Work closely with operations, freight, and execution teams to guarantee smooth flow of goods and minimize disruptions.

• Proven track record of managing large positions and delivering strong commercial results.
• Deep understanding of physical markets, S&D fundamentals, logistics, and risk management.
• Strong network of customers, suppliers, and industry stakeholders in the Middle East.
• Ability to travel extensively across the region.
• Strong negotiation and analytical skills, with a deep understanding of market trends.
• Strong team player, self‑motivated and energetic with a drive to learn.
• Excellent communication skills and relationship management skills.
• Excellent command of English.
• Proficiency in pricing strategies, and contract negotiation.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, high‑pressure trading environment.

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Agriculture, Finance or a related field.
• 10–15+ years of trading experience in Grains & Oilseeds or broader agri‑commodities, with significant exposure to Middle East markets.
• Experience of working in a global organization.

• Director

• Full‑time

• Business Development and Distribution
• Food and Beverage Manufacturing
• International Trade and Development
• Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage