Director of Regional Operations, Asia Pacific - Vietnam

Export Development Canada (EDC) is seeking a dynamic Chief Representative for our Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam office to lead business development efforts and strategic representation in Southeast Asia. This is a temporary international assignment requiring relocation to Vietnam for a minimum of three years. As EDC's senior representative in this key market, you will serve as the primary liaison between Canadian businesses and Vietnamese markets, driving growth opportunities and strengthening bilateral trade relationships.

At EDC, we empower Canadian businesses to succeed globally by providing innovative financial solutions, expert market insights, and risk mitigation strategies. As a financial Crown corporation, we play a vital role in Canada's international trade success, helping businesses explore new markets and achieve sustainable growth.

This hybrid position offers the unique opportunity to work at the intersection of international finance, business development, and diplomatic relations while building meaningful partnerships that advance Canada's trade interests in one of Southeast Asia's most dynamic economies.

• Lead the development and execution of comprehensive country strategy for Vietnam and broader ASEAN market initiatives
• Provide strategic market intelligence and analysis of evolving business environments, regulatory changes, and economic trends
• Generate new business opportunities aligned with EDC's corporate strategy through systematic prospecting, relationship building, and transaction origination
• Represent EDC at high-level public events, trade missions, and industry conferences across the region

• Proactively manage key accounts including buyers, borrowers, exporters, and market intermediaries to maximize transaction opportunities
• Structure and facilitate complex international transactions, conducting thorough client screening and risk assessment
• Develop and implement client-specific account plans that align with both EDC's objectives and client growth strategies
• Build and maintain strategic relationships with government officials, financial institutions, and business leaders

• Serve as trusted advisor to Canadian companies seeking to enter or expand in Vietnamese and regional markets
• Collaborate closely with Global Affairs Canada, provincial trade offices, and other government partners to coordinate trade promotion efforts
• Establish and nurture relationships with local financial institutions, trade associations, and business networks
• Mentor and lead local team members while collaborating effectively with virtual teams across multiple time zones

• Provide expert guidance on local business practices, cultural considerations, and regulatory requirements
• Conduct comprehensive market analysis and opportunity assessments for Canadian businesses
• Deliver insights on financial requirements and risk mitigation strategies throughout project lifecycles
• Support policy development through regular reporting and strategic recommendations to EDC headquarters

• University degree in business, economics, international relations, or related field, or equivalent combination of education and experience
• Minimum 10 years of international business experience with demonstrated success in business development roles
• Proven experience in financial services, including exposure to underwriting, lending, or insurance practices
• Previous experience working in emerging markets, preferably with knowledge of Vietnam and/or broader Asian markets

• Comprehensive understanding of international capital markets, banking environments, and export finance solutions
• Strong knowledge of Canadian export opportunities and investment challenges in Southeast Asian markets
• Proven track record of developing and maintaining strategic relationships at senior executive and government levels
• Exceptional influencing, negotiating, and communication skills with ability to present to diverse stakeholder groups
• Demonstrated ability to work autonomously while maintaining collaborative relationships with remote teams

• Results-oriented approach with strong initiative and problem-solving capabilities
• Ability to synthesize complex information and formulate sound strategic recommendations
• Experience navigating evolving regulatory and political environments
• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability for international assignments
• Flexibility to work varied hours due to networking events, client meetings, and multiple time zones

• Top Secret Security Clearance required (willing to commence screening process)
• Canadian Citizenship mandatory
• Bilingual proficiency in English and French required
• Vietnamese language skills considered a strong asset

• Commitment to international assignment in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam for minimum three years
• Adaptability to local business culture and practices
• Availability for regular travel within the region and periodic returns to Canada

EDC provides a competitive compensation package with performance-based incentives, reflecting the seniority and international nature of this role. Comprehensive relocation assistance is available for eligible candidates, including support for international move logistics and settling-in services.

You'll join a **collaborative, hybrid work