BACKGROUND & EXPERIENCE
- Bachelor’s degree or Master’s degree in Engineering, Mathematics, Economics, Maritime Concentration, Finance, or a related field.
- 4-5 years of experience in freight trading.
- Experience working in a global organization.
JOB PURPOSE
The primary objective is to identify, negotiate, and execute profitable freight trading opportunities within the Panamax dry bulk segment. The Freight Trader is responsible for developing and maintaining strong relationships with charterers, owners, and brokers. They leverage market intelligence and analytics to optimize vessel utilization and maximize earnings. This role requires sharp commercial acumen, a deep understanding of Panamax markets, and the ability to manage risk while driving consistent trading performance in a dynamic and competitive environment.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Pricing of Freight and Rate Negotiation
- Communicate with internal traders and vessel owners/brokers to price freight needs; utilize FFA and analyze external price proposals to determine fair market prices; negotiate freight rates and other Charter Party contractual terms.
- Research freight market information through communication with brokers and owners to accurately assess and project freight levels, providing information on grain and other bulk flows as well as competitor and supplier activities to the global team as applicable.
- Assist with internal inquiries and price grids; disclose and discuss relevant information with the Senior Trader and global size desk. Contribute to discussions on pricing for focused markets/flows.
- During pricing and negotiation, identify and trade arbitrage and hedging opportunities in the freight derivatives and futures market, assessing the opportunity of applying a period ship or new period ship fixture against a specific freight sale.
- Establish and maintain relationships with external third-party accounts on grain and other bulk commodity flows that align with in-house flow and offer strategic opportunities for the period fleet.
Freight Contract Execution
- Ensure sales and purchases are entered correctly and on time into the Freight Platform’s contract module.
- Collaborate closely with Freight Operations to stay updated on itineraries, stow plans, and voyage execution P&Ls while ensuring all documentary and administrative requirements are met in a timely manner.
- Resolve minor issues by working closely with traders, execution teams, and owners, while escalating larger issues to Senior management and/or Size/Regional Manager.
- Evaluate and monitor contract performance to ensure compliance with contractual obligations and determine if changes are necessary; consult with other traders on unusual pricing strategies, policies, and operational issues.
- Adhere to Corporate and/or Platform Risk, Credit, Compliance, and Ethics guidelines.
Additional Responsibilities
- Research and evaluate trading partners based on price, quality, selection, service, support, availability, reliability, production, distribution capabilities, reputation, and history.
- Complete training on Time Charter and Voyage Charter parties, FFA contract negotiation and execution, vessel bunkering hedging and execution, internal freight accounting practices, and internal freight IT systems.
- Manage data within the freight system effectively.
- Perform other document tasks related to China flow.
KEY RESULT AREAS
- Optimization and profitability of trading opportunities.
- P&L accountability within the trade desk.
- Daily position management and efficient execution and logistics.
- Active participation in supply and demand discussions and analysis.
SKILLS
- Strong negotiation and analytical skills with a deep understanding of market trends.
- Knowledge of futures, derivatives, and risk management strategies in commodity trading.
- Ability to manage global trade flows and origin balance sheets.
- Strong team player, self-motivated, and energetic with a drive to learn.
- Excellent communication and relationship management skills.
- Proficiency in English and Chinese.
- Experience with pricing strategies and contract negotiation.
- Able to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure trading environment.
- Strong MS Excel skills, with a focus on data science and statistics.
- Strong analytical and interpersonal skills.
- Self-motivated, assertive, and emotionally intelligent.
Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.