Cargo Operation Manager (Oil & Gas) - Key Responsibilities
As a Cargo Operation Manager, you will oversee and coordinate the end-to-end operational execution of crude and petroleum product cargoes, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and cost optimization from load to discharge. You will work cross-functionally with internal and external stakeholders to manage physical operations, mitigate risk, and drive commercial value.
Operations Management
- Oversees cargo operations, pre-empt operational problems and together with other members in the trading & operation team help to resolve them.
- Liaise with inspectors, agents, shipbrokers, terminals, surveyors, and trade counterparties to ensure smooth and timely execution of cargo operations.
- Oversee vessel screening, nominations, and documentation preparation, ensuring compliance with contractual and regulatory requirements.
- Monitor vessel movements from load to discharge port, ensuring alignment with delivery schedules and contract obligations.
- Ensure all operational data is accurately captured and updated
Contract Execution & Documentation
- Prepare and counter commercial contracts with suppliers and buyers, aligning operational terms and managing execution.
- Ensure that all obligations arising from purchase and sale agreements, including GTCs, are fulfilled.
- Coordinate and verify shipping documents, customs paperwork, and other regulatory filings.
Demurrage & Claims Handling
- Handle demurrage calculations and negotiations with shipowners and counterparties, ensuring timely submission within time bar limits.
- Manage operational claims related to quantity, quality, delays, or disruptions, escalating where necessary to minimize financial exposure.
Financial Coordination
- Collaborate with the trade finance team on letters of credit and other shipping documentation.
- Issue and verify invoices related to freight, demurrage, and ancillary costs.
Commercial Optimization & Integration
- Identify operational synergies and cost-saving opportunities throughout the voyage cycle.
- Integrate closely with Chartering, Shipping Operations, and Marine Assurance teams to align on vessel planning and cargo stowage.
Stakeholder Engagement & Compliance
- Maintain strong working relationships with internal departments.
- Participate in monthly cargo planning, contributing operational insights to improve forecasting and scheduling accuracy.
Leadership & Support
- Act as a mentor and escalation point for junior cargo operators, providing guidance and oversight where needed.
- Provide on-call support for urgent cargo operation matters outside of office hours.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and take ownership of complex operational challenges or projects.
Qualifications & Experience
- Education: Tertiary qualification in Engineering, Business, Maritime Studies, or a related discipline.
- Experience:
- Minimum 5 years experience in oil trading operations, supply chain, voyage management, or related downstream roles.
- Strong knowledge of crude and petroleum product logistics and trading practices.
- Familiarity with handling Letters of Credit and trade finance instruments.
- Experience in demurrage and claims negotiation.
- Exposure to biofuels or alternative fuels (advantageous).
- Previous leadership or mentoring experience within operations teams.
