Operations Specialist, Bulk Commodities

Brief Summary:

• Lead end-to-end trade operations, documentation and financial coordination for international shipments. Apply expertise in contracts, letters of credit, compliance and risk controls to support accurate and timely execution.

Responsibilities:

• Coordinate vessel nominations, port agent details, stowage plans and shipment schedules with relevant counterparties. Review sales and purchase contracts to confirm shipment timelines, commodity specifications and payment terms. Prepare, verify and manage letters of credit, including drafts, issuance, discrepancy resolution and negotiation with banks. Ensure shipping documents, invoices, bills of lading and related records comply with contractual and letter-of-credit requirements. Monitor vessel movements and provide timely shipment updates to buyers and sellers. Record shipment quality, quantity and documentation upon loading, checking all details against buyer instructions and applicable credit terms. Prepare letters of indemnity where required. Calculate laytime, demurrage and dispatch for relevant parties, and resolve discrepancies as necessary. Monitor receivables, payables and shipment-related cash flow, including follow-up on delayed payments. Maintain accurate system and spreadsheet records, including shipment status, cash-flow information and payment readiness. Complete month-end trade transactions within established deadlines. Support contract reviews by identifying commercial risks, obligations and recommended revisions. Monitor credit limits and escalate potential breaches or transaction risks promptly. Identify financial variances and operational risks, and assist with appropriate mitigation measures. Verify that transactions comply with internal procedures and escalate exceptions when required. Work with relevant departments to resolve operational issues and support effective outcomes. Maintain confidentiality, protect business assets and report potential non-compliance. Follow internal control, compliance and applicable legal requirements. Collaborate with the Compliance team to review and improve internal control processes. Provide operational support and coverage to the team when required. Undertake other relevant trade operations duties, including system testing, as assigned.

Requirements:

• Diploma in Business or a related discipline. At least three years of relevant trade operations experience. Knowledge of letters of credit and UCP 600 requirements. Understanding of bulk shipping procedures, laycan, laytime, demurrage and dispatch. Sound knowledge of contractual commercial terms, obligations and associated risks. Familiarity with international metals trade processes, including bills of credit, bills of lading, letter-of-credit negotiation, security trade controls and internal controls, would be advantageous. Knowledge of commodity market procedures and related operational systems. Understanding of insurance, Authorised Economic Operator requirements, import duties, value-added tax and compliance processes. Strong numerical and analytical capability. Experience using SAP financial modules. Practical knowledge of Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint and Word. Ability to maintain accuracy and attention to detail when handling financial and shipping documentation. Ability to manage deadlines, adapt to operational changes and work collaboratively. Sound judgement, integrity and discretion when handling confidential information.