Regional Manager, Strategic Partnership (Market Expansion)  

PURPOSE / OBJECTIVE (OF THIS POSITION):

The Manager, Strategic Partnership (Market Expansion) leads the growth of new markets by identifying and securing high-value partners, driving market-entry strategies, and overseeing the execution of crossborder initiatives. This role acts as a key driver of ZUS Coffee’s regional expansion roadmap, building strategic relationships and ensuring the successful rollout of partnership-led projects in emerging markets. The role requires regular travel to regional markets for partner meetings, market visits, and on-ground execution support.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:

Market Expansion Leadership

  • Lead the identification and evaluation of strategic partners across new markets (PH, TH, ID, APAC, etc.).
  • Conduct comprehensive market research and competitive analysis to identify opportunities, gaps, and risks
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with high-impact cross-border partners (banks, telcos, e-wallets, loyalty platforms, digital platforms, etc.).

Partnership Evaluation, Strategy & Acquisition
  • Analyse, prioritise, and secure partnership opportunities based on commercial potential and strategic alignment.
  • Lead development of partnership proposals, business cases, feasibility studies, and regional collaboration models.
  • Negotiate partnership terms and secure long-term agreements to support sustainable market growth.

Campaign Ownership & Execution
  • Lead the end-to-end execution of partnership campaigns in new markets.
  • Monitor performance metrics, take-up rates, and ROI to optimise outcomes.
  • Work closely with Regional Business Units (country marketing, campaign teams, tech, operations) to ensure alignment and smooth execution.

Reporting, Insights & Post-Mortems
  • Consolidate campaign results, market insights, and strategic recommendations for leadership review.
  • Ensure timely and comprehensive post-mortem reporting for continuous improvement.

Cross-Functional & Regional Coordination
  • Serve as the primary liaison between HQ and regional market teams.
  • Ensure alignment on project timelines, deliverables, compliance, and partner expectations
  • Provide guidance and oversight to junior team members supporting expansion efforts.

JOB COMPETENCIES / REQUIREMENTS:

  • 4–7 years experience in strategic partnerships, business development, or market expansion roles
  • Strong commercial acumen with the ability to evaluate new markets and build scalable partnerships
  • Excellent stakeholder management, negotiation, and communication skills
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
  • Highly proactive, resourceful, and able to work independently in fast-growing environments
  • Willing and able to travel frequently across regional markets
  • Experience in regional or cross-border projects is a strong advantage