Main Purpose:

We are seeking a motivated and ambitious Light Ends Trader to join our trading team. The ideal candidate will have foundational knowledge of the light ends markets, strong analytical skills, and a keen interest in trading. This role will involve supporting the management of the desk trading portfolio, identifying market opportunities (especially in West Africa), and executing trades to maximize profitability.
Additionally, the candidate must have experience of doing business in West-Africa, and be fluent in both English and French.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities, Key Responsibilities:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in naphtha trading, energy trading, or a related role within the commodities sector.
• Market Knowledge: Basic understanding of the naphtha market, including supply chains, pricing mechanisms, and key market players.
• Sustainability : understanding of supply-chain-traceability and sustainability schemes, segregated/mass-balance schemes, ISCC-type certification and trading such type obligations.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
• Communication: Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain professional relationships.
• Language : candidate must be bilingual (fluent) in both English and French.
• Technology: Proficiency in MS Office Suite, and advanced skills in Python, Java, and Power BI.
• Compliance: Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements and compliance standards in commodities trading.
• FX: candidate must have keen awareness of managing FX risk in emerging markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Market Analysis: Assist in conducting market research and analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and risks in the light ends markets.
• Trading Strategy: Support the development and implementation of trading strategies to optimize the naphtha trading portfolio.
• Trade Execution: Assist in executing trades efficiently, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Risk Management: Help monitor and manage market risks, including price volatility, supply disruptions, and geopolitical factors.
• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key market participants, including suppliers, customers, and other traders.
• Reporting: Prepare regular reports on market conditions, trading activities, and portfolio performance for senior traders and management.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the research, logistics, and risk management teams to support trading activities and ensure seamless operations.

Competencies

• Decision-Making: Ability to make informed decisions under guidance.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
• Team Player: Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Integrity: High ethical standards and integrity in all trading activities.

Key Relationships and Department Overview:

Key Relationships

• Naphtha Traders
• Mogas Traders
• Renewables / Sustainability team.
• Data Analysis team
• Operations team
• Deals Desk team

Department

The naphtha trading desk is responsible for the buying, selling, and risk management of naphtha, a key feedstock in petrochemical production and gasoline blending. The team conducts market analysis, develops trading strategies, executes trades, and manages relationships with suppliers and customers to optimize profitability and mitigate market risks. Additionally, the desk engages in paper trading of naphtha, using financial derivatives to hedge physical positions and speculate on market movements. Leveraging data analytics and technology, including algorithmic trading and data visualization tools, the desk ensures informed and strategic trading decisions.