Business Development Director

Job Title: Business Development Director (Art Supplies Industry)

Department: Business Development

Location: Singapore (frequent travel to China, ~30%)

Reports to: Managing Director

About the Role

UMISTRONG is a fast-growing retail and wholesale enterprise specializing in art supplies for artists, schools, and creative enthusiasts. We are seeking a visionary Business Development Director to lead our expansion, focusing on the China market and building an integrated art ecosystem that positions UMISTRONG as an industry leader.

Core Responsibilities
1. Growth Strategy

• Develop and execute a 3-year business plan to increase market share and profitability in China and Singapore.
• Identify high-growth categories (e.g., digital art, eco-friendly materials, education kits).
  Drive pricing, channel, and supply chain strategies to achieve- 30% YoY growth, with focus on China.

2. Brand Partnerships & Product Expansion

• Lead partnerships with global art brands (EU/US/JP/KR/CN) to secure exclusive distribution in Singapore and China.
• Negotiate cross-border agreements and oversee brand onboarding, marketing, and inventory.
• Manage suppliers in China (sourcing, price negotiation, contract management in Mandarin and English).
• Develop emerging product lines such as art therapy tools and IP collaborations for the Chinese market.

3. Owned Brand Development

• Oversee end-to-end creation of UMISTRONG proprietary brands — from product design to China-based production and positioning.
• Execute integrated online–offline marketing to create category bestsellers (e.g., professional-grade, child-safe art supplies).

4. Retail Expansion & Innovation

• Expand retail footprint in Singapore (+5 outlets in 3 years).
• Create "Art Retail+" concepts combining retail, workshops, and exhibitions, adaptable to both Singapore and China.

5. China Market Development

• Leverage expertise in China's art supply industry, e-commerce (Tmall, JD, Douyin), and distribution channels.
• Lead participation in major China trade fairs (CSF, CICPE, Canton Fair, Shanghai Art Supplies Expo).
• Establish and manage a China subsidiary, including compliance, taxation, and supplier networks.
• Requirement: Native-level Mandarin for negotiation and contract drafting. Frequent China travel (30%+, 2–4-week trips).

6. Ecosystem & Partnerships

• Build partnerships with Singapore institutions (NAFA, LASALLE, SOTA, galleries) and Chinese art academies for co-development of products and courses.
• Grow B2B markets: MOE procurement, corporate art programs, studio collaborations, and art-tech initiatives.

Qualifications
Experience

• 5+ years in business development (retail/FMCG), preferably in art supplies, stationery, or China markets.
• Proven record in international brand partnerships, new brand incubation, or omnichannel expansion, particularly in China.

Skills

• Bilingual: Native Mandarin and fluent English for negotiation, communication, and contract writing.
• China Market Expertise: Strong networks with suppliers, academies, and commercial platforms; knowledge of local business culture and regulations.
• Data-Driven: Proficient in AI tools for sales and user data analysis.
• Leadership: Managed 10+ cross-functional members across Singapore and China.

Attributes

• Passionate about the art industry and creator needs.
• Agile, self-driven, and adaptable to a fast-paced, travel-intensive environment.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary + performance bonus
• Full travel budget for frequent China trips.
• Strategic leadership role across Singapore and China.
• Complimentary access to art workshops and new product trials.

About UMISTRONG

UMISTRONG is Singapore's leading art supply ecosystem, representing 10+ global brands (Winsor & Newton, Pébéo, Mont Marte, Faber-Castell, Hongxing, Yidege) and operating our own UMISTRONG brand.

We work closely with institutions such as NAFA, LASALLE, SOTA, and MOE schools, and are now expanding into China. Join us to redefine the art supply industry in Asia.

Note

This position requires frequent travel to China (minimum 30%, including extended stays) and native-level Mandarin proficiency to manage supplier negotiations, contracts, and operations in China. Candidates must be culturally adaptable and comfortable with China's business environment.

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