Director of Trade and Investment

Talent Acquisition Lead - North Europe @ DP World | CIPD Certified

Director of Trade and InvestmentReports to:

Chief Executive OfficerPurpose of the RoleThames Freeport is a strategic partnership between London Gateway, Tilbury, and Ford Dagenham, working alongside local authorities and industry to create world-class industrial ecosystems along the Thames Estuary. Guided by its emerging masterplan, the Freeport is designed to accelerate private-sector investment, drive high-quality job creation, and generate lasting public value. By combining innovation, trade, and regeneration, Thames Freeport aims to position the UK as a global hub for advanced manufacturing, clean energy, sustainable construction, and next-generation logistics—ensuring local communities share directly in the benefits.The Director of Trade and Investment will lead efforts to attract and secure major investments that anchor these ecosystems. They will shape and deliver an investment strategy capable of securing at least £3 billion in committed investment by 2030, ensuring opportunities align with the Freeport’s objectives around innovation, regeneration, skills, and net zero. The Director will own the Thames Freeport Investment Policy, cultivate senior relationships across government and industry, and promote Thames Freeport as a premium destination for high-value investment. Acting as a senior ambassador both domestically and internationally, will guide investors from initial engagement through to successful project delivery.Key ResponsibilitiesDevelop and maintain an effective investment strategy that supports the Thames Freeport’s three-year delivery plan and aligns with its broader objectives.Represent Thames Freeport externally, including overseas trade missions, investor visits, and other ambassadorial engagements.Identify and develop major investment leads in key markets and sectors, supported by robust analysis and CRM systems to track opportunities and performance.Convert high-value leads into anchor investment projects that strengthen the Freeport’s ecosystem and deliver long-term economic impact.Promote Thames Freeport as a premium investment destination, presenting a clear and compelling proposition to senior decision-makers in business and government.Build and sustain senior-level relationships with investors, government departments, foreign embassies, trade bodies, and private-sector partners, acting as a trusted representative of the Freeport.Own the Thames Freeport Investment Policy, assessing and qualifying investments for Freeport benefits in support of the Freeport Board.Provide governance and strategic support, including preparation for Board discussions and ensuring the effective operation of the Trade and Investment Subcommittee.Skills and ExperienceProven experience in securing major inward investments or leading trade and business development programmes.Strong understanding of investment appraisal, policy frameworks, and collaborative working between public and private sectors.Established networks within government, industry, or global trade and investment communities.Demonstrated ability to set strategy, manage budgets, and lead teams effectively (currently overseeing two direct reports).Excellent communication and relationship-building skills at board, ministerial, and senior corporate levels.Confidence and credibility in representing a high-profile organisation on the international stage.Personal QualitiesStrategic thinker with the discipline to translate vision into action.Persuasive and collaborative, able to build trust across diverse stakeholders.Commercially astute with sound judgement on risk, governance, and reputation.Resilient, proactive, and motivated by clear, measurable outcomes.Genuine team player who involves and supports colleagues.Why Join Us?Exciting Growth Opportunity: Be part of a transformational economic initiative that is shaping the future of trade and investment in the region.Diverse and Impactful Role: Work across events, stakeholder engagement, and digital marketing to make a real impact.Collaborative Team Environment: Join a dynamic and supportive team, working closely with business leaders and community partners.Competitive Salary and BenefitsAs key partners within Thames Freeport, DP World are pleased to advertise the Director of Trade and Investment on their behalf. We reserve the right to close this job early if we receive a high volume of applications.Seniority level

DirectorEmployment type

Full-timeJob function

ManagementIndustries

International Trade and DevelopmentTransportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and StorageReferrals increase your chances of interviewing at Thames Freeport by 2xLondon, England, United Kingdom 6 days ..... full job details .....