Head of Trade and Export in Sheffield

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Salary: £59,449 - £64,451. Hours: 37 per week. Location: Sheffield (hybrid role with a minimum of 3 days per week in the office). Contract: Fixed Term - 2 years (Additional Department Resource).

Applications must be accompanied by a cover letter detailing how you meet the essential criteria for the role (see role profile attached). Applications should be made directly via our careers portal.

Please note South Yorkshire Mayoral Combined Authority does not hold a sponsorship licence and cannot provide Skilled Worker sponsorship for any roles advertised.

Here at SYMCA we’re looking for a strategic leader to head up the Trade and Export function. This is a unique opportunity to drive international growth, unlock export potential, and deliver inclusive economic impact across our region.

Lead for Trade and Export – design and deliver a high-performing international programme of events and trade missions, working with partners, stakeholders and businesses to position South Yorkshire on the global stage. You’ll deputise for the Director of Trade & Investment and play a pivotal role in shaping the region’s trade journey.

• Develop and deliver the Trade and Internationalisation strategies, setting priorities that drive sustainable growth and global competitiveness.
• Lead the design and delivery of inclusive international events and trade missions, maximising opportunities for regional growth.
• Implement the Trade Business Plan through targeted campaigns and strategic stakeholder engagement.
• Enhance place-based marketing activities, identifying export opportunities and supporting business expansion.
• Build strong partnerships across the region.
• Lead performance management of the Trade team, ensuring delivery of a high-quality, commercially focused service.
• Support South Yorkshire’s supply chains by identifying and targeting key export opportunities.
• Develop sector intelligence to inform investment opportunities and strategic decision-making.
• Identify and pursue external sponsorship and funding opportunities to support exporters.

We’re seeking someone with a proactive mindset, strong commercial acumen, and a passion for delivering impact. You’ll be a strategic leader who excels in building relationships across a wide range of stakeholders. Exceptional communication skills are critical for influencing at senior levels, fostering trust, and driving engagement across public and private sectors to unlock regional growth opportunities.

• Degree level or equivalent experience in international business development.
• Experience organising international programmes and events.
• Strong understanding of commercial business models and strategic decision-making.
• Proven experience in business development, trade promotion, and stakeholder engagement.
• In-depth knowledge of international trade trends and export markets.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and project management skills.
• Ability to lead by example and inspire others.
• High level of personal and professional integrity.

All colleagues have access to a Local Government Pension Scheme and the chance to be part of an organisation where you can really make a difference. Located in Sheffield City Centre, we are well-placed for transport links and encourage employees to use active travel facilities. We value work/life balance with family/friendly policies, flexibility, recognition, and shared success.

In addition to the above, benefits include:

• Local Government Pension Scheme – flexible contributions with life cover and terminal illness cover after 2 years.
• Continuous Employment – transfer of service for eligible Local Government or Redundancy Modification Scheme staff.
• Enhanced Holiday Entitlement – 28 to 36 days plus bank holidays (pro-rata for part-time).
• Annual Leave Purchase Scheme – purchase up to a further 15 days per year.
• Hybrid working – most roles are hybrid unless stated otherwise.
• Flexible Hours Scheme – flexi-hours with potential for flexi-leave.
• Rewarding You – discounts, wellbeing solutions, and more.
• Training on the job – upskilling and qualifications support.
• Professional Membership Fees – reimbursement where applicable with management approval.

Diversity and Inclusion We are committed to equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all backgrounds. All employees may request Flexible Working arrangements from day one, subject to operation requirements. If you have a disability, and meet all essential criteria, you will be invited to interview. For reasonable adjustments, contact recruitment@southyorkshire-ca.gov.uk.

• Director

• Full-time

• Other

• Government Administration