Main Purpose:

The role is to establish a presence for Trafigura in the PetroChemical (PetChems) markets. This is an exciting area of growth for Trafigura in line with the company’s goal to grow its presence in the PetroChemical markets. The role will concentrate on Caustic Soda to start with. The individual will be part of a new team dedicated to this growth area of the business and will help to set the firm’s PetChems growth strategy and exposure going forward.

We are seeking a skilled and motivated Petrochemical Trader specializing in caustic soda to join our team. The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of the caustic soda market, strong analytical skills, and a proven track record in trading petrochemical products. This role requires the ability to develop and execute trading strategies, manage risks, and build strong relationships with key stakeholders.

Knowledge Skills and Abilities, Key Responsibilities:

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Very strong knowledge of the physical trade lifecycle, global arbitrage and its impact on the paper markets
• Strong knowledge of PetChems markets and their drivers
• Minimum 10 years of experience in the Trading industry
• Circa 5 years of experience in the petrochemical industry in a trading position
• Track record of successful deal origination, structuring and execution.
• Experience of petrochemical project development through to completion
• Commercially savvy with excellent interpersonal skills and team player.
• Creative problem solver with the ability to align interests of internal and external stakeholders.
• Abiltiy to manage and mentor junior employees when required
• Bachelor degree level (or equivalent) engineering, economics or business qualification.

Key Responsibilities

• Market Analysis and Strategy Development:
  • Analyze market trends, supply-demand dynamics, and pricing structures specific to the caustic soda market.
  • Develop and implement trading strategies to optimize profitability and manage risks.
  • Monitor regulatory changes and geopolitical developments impacting the caustic soda market.
• Trading Execution:
  • Execute trades in caustic soda and related petrochemical products.
  • Negotiate and finalize commercial terms and contracts with counterparties.
  • Manage the physical delivery of caustic soda, coordinating with logistics and operations teams.
• Relationship Management:
  • Build and maintain strong relationships with key market participants, including suppliers, customers, and industry stakeholders.
  • Represent the company at industry conferences, events, and meetings.
  • Provide market intelligence and insights to internal stakeholders.
• Risk Management:
  • Utilize financial instruments and hedging strategies (including through derivatives) to mitigate exposure.
  • Ensure compliance with internal risk management policies and external regulations.
• Business Development:
  • Work closely with Trafigura book leaders to develop commercial opportunities in petrochemicals.
  • Identify and pursue new business opportunities to expand the company’s presence in the caustic soda market and Petchems market in general.
  • Exploit synergies with existing businesses and leverage Trafigura’s market leader position in naphtha, LPG, gasoline and shipping in order to Identify and structure commercial business opportunities in petrochemical markets globally – primarily Europe and Asia at this stage. US/North America and South America to be included at a later stage as per Management request
  • Develop and maintain relationships with potential new clients and partners.
  • Assess and recommend potential investments and partnerships that align with the company’s strategic goals.

Competencies

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to multitask in a high pressure environment.
• Action oriented
• Manages complexity
• Demonstrates financial acumen
• Capacity to build networks

Key Relationships and Department Overview:

Key Relationships

• Physical and Paper Traders

• Head of Trading Books
• Head of Deals Desk
• Head of Operations Desk
• Heads of Finance Departments – Trade Finance, Corporate Finance, Structure Trade Finance
• External counterparties.

Department

The Petrochemicals Trading Desk is specializing in the trading of key products such as ethylene, propylene, benzene, and their derivatives. Our team of expert traders and analysts leverages extensive market knowledge and strategic partnerships to deliver high-value solutions to our clients. By meticulously analyzing market trends and dynamics, executing precise trading strategies, and managing risks effectively, the Petrochemicals Trading Desk drives profitability and supports the company’s commitment to innovation and excellence in the petrochemical industry.