The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Director/VP of Global Exports
5-8 years to this role, then 5-10 years at this levelSkills to master
- Deep expertise in global trade compliance, managing large-scale logistics operations, P&L management for a significant export division, and leading multi-country teams. You'd have owned a substantial portion of the international revenue and risk.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistent achievement of aggressive export revenue and profitability targets.
- Successful navigation of complex international trade disputes or compliance challenges.
- Demonstrated ability to build and lead high-performing global export teams.
- Strong relationships with key international logistics partners and government agencies.
- 2
VP International Sales / Head of International Markets
5-8 years to this role, then 5-10 years at this levelSkills to master
- Developing and executing international sales strategies, building and managing global sales teams, identifying and penetrating new markets, and managing complex international distributor networks. You'd have been responsible for top-line international growth.
You're ready to move on when
- Significant track record of driving international sales growth and market share expansion.
- Successful launches in multiple new geographical markets.
- Expertise in cross-cultural sales and negotiation strategies.
- Ability to integrate sales strategy with overall international business objectives.
- 3
Head of International Supply Chain / Global Operations Director
5-8 years to this role, then 5-10 years at this levelSkills to master
- Designing and optimising complex global supply chain networks, managing international manufacturing or sourcing operations, implementing advanced logistics technologies, and building supply chain resilience against global disruptions. You'd have owned the cost and efficiency of our global operations.
You're ready to move on when
- Proven ability to reduce landed costs and improve supply chain efficiency on a global scale.
- Successful implementation of major international supply chain transformation projects.
- Expertise in managing international logistics, warehousing, and customs operations.
- Strong track record of mitigating global supply chain risks.