Job Description

Job Title:

Barge & Vessel Trading Operator

Contract Type:

Time Type:

Job Description:

The Barge & Vessel Trading Operator is responsible for the end-to-end operational execution of physical commodity transactions across marine and inland logistics chains. The role serves as the primary coordination point between Trading, Chartering, Shipping, Finance, Risk, suppliers, customers, terminals and service providers, ensuring that contractual obligations are executed safely, efficiently and in line with commercial objectives. The position proactively manages operational risk, protects commercial value and supports the efficient movement of products throughout the supply chain.

Main Responsibilities

Trade & Operational Execution

• Manage the operational lifecycle of physical commodity transactions from contract issuance through final settlement.
• Coordinate cargo movements and operational activities across vessels, barges, terminals and storage facilities.
• Ensure timely execution of contractual obligations and provide operational support to trading activities.
• Monitor cargo schedules, loading and discharge operations, inventory movements and voyage progress.
• Identify operational risks, manage disruptions and implement appropriate mitigation measures.
• Maintain accurate trade and operational data within internal systems.

Marine & Inland Logistics Operations

• Manage day-to-day execution of vessel and barge movements, including nominations, scheduling and voyage monitoring.
• Coordinate with shipowners, barge operators, charterers, agents, terminals, inspectors and service providers.
• Manage terminal bookings, transfers, storage activities and product movements.
• Support inventory management, blending operations and cargo reconciliation activities where applicable.
• Ensure all required approvals, instructions and operational documentation are completed in a timely manner.

Documentation, Inspection & Compliance

• Coordinate independent inspectors and surveyors during loading, discharge and transfer operations.
• Manage quantity and quality determination processes and assist in resolving related discrepancies.
• Review and distribute operational documentation, including Bills of Lading, Certificates of Quantity and Quality, customs documentation and related shipping documents.
• Ensure operations comply with contractual obligations, company policies and applicable regulatory requirements.
• Maintain complete and auditable operational records.

Commercial Risk, Claims & Cost Management

• Monitor laytime performance and identify exposure to demurrage, detention and other operational costs.
• Support the preparation, defence and resolution of claims, disputes and operational incidents.
• Review operational implications of contracts, charter parties and transportation agreements.
• Work closely with commercial stakeholders to minimise risk and protect trading value.
• Monitor operational expenses and contribute to cost optimisation initiatives.

Continuous Improvement & Stakeholder Management

• Build strong working relationships with internal and external stakeholders across the supply chain.
• Act as the primary operational contact for assigned trades and movements.
• Contribute to process improvement, automation and operational excellence initiatives.
• Support the development of best practices to improve efficiency, controls and transparency.

Profile

• A degree or professional qualification in maritime studies, logistics, supply chain, business, commerce or a related discipline is advantageous.
• Equivalent relevant operational experience may be considered.
• Experience in commodity trading operations, vessel operations, barge operations, shipping or logistics.
• Experience within an energy trading company, shipping company, shipowner, chartering organisation or a similar environment is highly desirable.
• Experience with inland barge operations, tanker operations and terminal logistics is preferred.
• Knowledge of petroleum products, biofuels or related commodities is preferred.
• Familiarity with inventory management, blending operations and storage activities is advantageous.
• Good understanding of charter parties, cargo operations, Incoterms, Bills of Lading and shipping documentation.
• Knowledge of operational risk management, claims handling, demurrage and laytime principles.
• Understanding of freight economics, demurrage and voyage optimisation.
• Strong commercial awareness, analytical capability and practical problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills across internal and external parties.
• Strong organisation and prioritisation skills in a fast-paced operational environment.
• High attention to detail, accuracy and control discipline.
• Ability to manage multiple cargoes, movements, deadlines and operational issues concurrently.
• Commitment to continuous improvement, process efficiency, controls and transparency.
• Fluent professional English, written and spoken.
• Additional languages relevant to counterparties and operating locations are advantageous.

If you think the open position you see is right for you, we encourage you to apply!

Our people make all the difference in our success.