China-Türkiye Trade Lane Business Development Manager
DHL
Sales & Business Development
Istanbul, İstanbul, Turkey
DGFF Türkiye is seeking an experienced and dynamic Sales or Business Development Manager to be based in İstanbul through the CAMEL (China Africa Middle East Link) Program. The CAMEL program is a strategic initiative designed to develop high-potential Chinese talents who will play a pivotal role in driving international trade growth between China and MEA region. Selected external trainees will be responsible for developing and executing a sales strategy focused on the China-MEA trade lane, leveraging your expertise to acquire new customers and grow business with existing accounts. You will serve as the cultural and commercial linchpin, understanding the needs of both Chinese exporters/importers and MEA-based clients. This program provides a great opportunity to work in a dynamic international environment and grow an individual’s potential to be the future leader, with the chance for permanent placement upon successful completion of the program.
About DGFF MEA
DHL Global Forwarding Middle East & Africa (DGFF MEA) is a pivotal player in one of the world's most dynamic trade regions. We leverage a vast network of local experts and major logistics hubs to connect vibrant, fast-growing markets to global trade lanes. Our comprehensive services, including Air, Ocean, and Road Freight, supported by deep expertise in Customs Clearance and sector-specific solutions, are tailored to the unique opportunities and challenges across the region. From supporting major infrastructure projects to enabling cross-border commerce, DGFF MEA is at the forefront of facilitating trade, driven by DHL’s global strength and an unwavering commitment to powering our customers' growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Business Development & Sales Growth: Develop and implement a robust sales strategy to penetrate the China-MEA market for freight forwarding services and drive sales growth. Identify, target, and acquire new Chinese clients and build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key decision-makers.
- Customer Relationship Management: Act as the primary point of contact for clients on the China-MEA trade lane, ensuring exceptional service and customer satisfaction. Work closely with internal operations teams to design tailored, end-to-end logistics solutions that meet specific client needs. Plan and conduct carrier and supplier visits in collaboration with relevant product teams with a focus on improving service offerings on the CN-TR lane.
- Market Intelligence & Strategy: Conduct thorough market research to understand trends, competitors, and new opportunities within the China-MEA corridor in the host country.
- Cultural Bridge & Collaboration: Leverage your cultural understanding to facilitate smooth communication and collaboration between Chinese clients and the local MEA team. Translate business requirements and expectations effectively between both cultures, ensuring clarity and preventing misunderstandings.
Qualifications and Experience:
- Bachelor’s degree in Business, International Trade, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and native Mandarin Chinese (essential).
- Minimum of 3-5 years of proven experience in sales or business development, preferably within the freight forwarding, logistics, shipping, or international trade sectors.
- Deep understanding of sales cycles and processes, from prospecting to closing and self-motivated, results-oriented, and resilient with a high degree of initiative.
- Based in Türkiye (İstanbul)and having the residence permit is a significant advantage.
- Cultural sensitivity and adaptability to diverse working environments.
- Previous work experience in or with the MEA region is significant advantage.
What We Offer:
- A unique and high-impact role at the center of one of the world's most dynamic trade corridors.
- The opportunity to be a pioneer and key player in a strategic, company-backed development program.
- A competitive compensation and benefits package with the opportunity for permanent placement.
- Extensive opportunities for professional growth and long-term career development within the global DGFF network.
- The chance to build an invaluable international network and gain unparalleled cross-cultural business experience.