The Trade Operations Executive (Coal)is responsible for the end-to-end execution of international coal trades, ensuring accurate contract execution, smooth shipment flow, correct documentation, and timely resolution of operational issues. The role supports both purchase and sales contracts and plays a critical role in managing commercial risk across FOB and CFR trades.
Key Responsibilities
Trade Execution & Contract Management
- Prepare, review, and execute coal purchase and sales contracts for both vessel and barge shipments
- Handle full execution cycle from contract confirmation to final settlement
- Work on FOB purchase and CFR sale contracts, ensuring correct risk transfer from origin to destination
- Ensure alignment between buyer and seller contracts to mitigate commercial and operational exposure
Shipping & Logistics Coordination
- Review and comment on vessel / barge fixture notes and recaps
- Coordinate shipment schedules, loading and discharge operations
- Monitor shipment progress and address delays or deviations promptly
Documentation & Compliance
- Check, review, and comment on all shipping and commercial documents including:
- Bills of Lading
- Commercial Invoices
- Certificates of Analysis / Quality
- Other contractual shipping documents
- Ensure consistency between buyer and seller documentation requirements
Laytime & Claims Awareness
- Demonstrate solid understanding of laytime calculations in line with contract terms
- Track laytime, identify potential demurrage or dispatch exposure, and escalate where required
Letters of Credit (LC)
- Understand LC terms and conditions and ensure compliance with contractual and banking requirements
- Coordinate with finance teams to resolve discrepancies related to LC documentation
Problem Solving & Risk Management
- Proactively identify and resolve issues encountered during shipment execution
- Liaise with traders, shipping, finance, and counterparties to minimize operational and financial risk
- Escalate critical issues in a timely and structured manner
Systems & Reporting
- Maintain accurate databases of deals, shipments, and specifications
- Prepare execution trackers and reports for management
- Ensure proper record keeping for audit and internal control purposes
Availability & Work Ethic
- Be available beyond standard office hours as required, recognizing that trade operations are time-critical and shipment-driven
Key Requirements
- Minimum 5 years of experience in coal trade operations within an international trading company
- Strong hands-on experience with FOB and CFR trades
- Solid understanding of shipping documentation, laytime, and execution workflows
- Good working knowledge of LC terms
- Proficiency in MS Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Strong database and record-keeping skills
- Excellent interpersonal and coordination skills to work closely with finance, shipping, and trading teams
Key Competencies
- High attention to detail
- Commercial and risk awareness
- Strong problem-solving ability
- Ability to perform under pressure and manage multiple shipments
- Clear communication and stakeholder management
