Senior Trade Specialist
Job Summary
The Senior Trade Specialist will lead Scottish Science & Technology (S&T) trade development in Japan, focusing on MedTech, Health-Tech, and Pharma. The role involves supporting Scottish companies with market access, identifying export opportunities, and managing strategic relationships. The position requires a proactive project manager to coordinate trade missions, research market trends, and report to the regional team.
Responsibilities
- Lead trade support for Scottish S&T companies in Japan
- Identify and map market opportunities and strategic buyers
- Organize trade missions, webinars, and matchmaking events
- Support regional SDI operations and ministerial visits
Required Skills
- Established network in Japanese Life Sciences/Tech sector
- Project and event management expertise
- Professional fluency in English and Japanese (C2/B2)
- Strong market research and report writing skills
Job Details
### Job Description
**Main Purpose of Job:**
Scottish Development International (SDI) is looking for a Senior Trade Specialist to lead on Scotland’s Science & Technology (S&T) sectors in Japan. This will include supporting Scottish Science & Technology companies with accessing the Japanese market and by identifying trade opportunities with key customers. The successful candidate will develop and maintain strategic relationships that grow Scottish trade, identify export opportunities and provide market insights within the life sciences and technology sectors; with MedTech/Health-Tech and Pharma Services being the primary sectors of focus.
**What the Jobholder will be Expected to Achieve:**
The successful candidate will be a proactive and meticulous project manager who is well versed in multi-tasking and collaborating with colleagues and external partners. The jobholder will be expected to support the delivery of complex projects focused on growing Scottish exports in the S&T sectors, and contribute to SDI’s key international performance measures.
**Specific Responsibilities:**
* **Trade Support (40%):** Lead on trade support for Scottish S&T companies, undertake research on buyers and regulatory frameworks, and deliver visit programmes, trade missions, and webinars.
* **Trade Development (40%):** Provide trade advice, identify market opportunities aligned with the Scottish supply chain, and support strategic engagement with targeted buyers.
* **Other (20%):** Deliver webinars, use social media to raise awareness of market opportunities, support the SDI Regional Manager, and assist with visits by Scottish Government Ministers.
**Job Requirements:**
* **Qualifications & Experience:** An experienced networker with established relationships in the life sciences & technology sectors in Japan. A relevant degree level qualification or equivalent experience.
* **Skills:** Excellent project and event management skills, market research, report writing, and strong internal/external communication skills.
* **Language:** Written and spoken proficiency in both English and Japanese (Fluency/C2 level in one, high business/B2 level in the other).
* **Software:** IT literate (PowerPoint, Excel, Word, and Microsoft Dynamics).
**Working Conditions:**
* 37.5 hours per week (Flexible working hours and remote work options are negotiable).
* Overtime may be required for embassy events.
* Permanent contract.
* Holidays: 2 days off per week (Sat/Sun), 12 public holidays, and 25 days annual leave.