Senior Trader - Minerals and Metals

Bachelor of Commerce (Commerce), Bachelor of Arts (Economics)

Nationality: Any Nationality

Vacancy: 1 Vacancy

Job Description:

Our client is a multinational conglomerate based in Africa and is undertaking a strategic initiative aimed at unlocking the continent's potential in mineral and metal transformation and processing.

They are seeking a seasoned and strategic Senior Trader to join the team in Dubai. This is a high-impact role for an individual with deep experience in metals trading and a strong commercial understanding of the mining industry and global commodities markets.

The ideal candidate will play a key role in shaping the metals trading strategy, originating and closing deals, and building long-term relationships that support our growth in key markets.

Key Responsibilities

Sourcing & Procurement:

• Identify, develop, and manage reliable supplier networks in African countries for minerals and metals, including but not limited to bauxite, manganese, iron ore, copper, cobalt, lithium, aluminium, precious metals, and other ores, concentrates, scrap and commodities.
• Conduct due diligence on mines, cooperatives, and exporters across Africa to ensure compliance with legal and ethical standards.
• Negotiate offtake agreements, spot deals, and long-term supply contracts that align with the company's objectives and risk appetite, ensuring favourable terms and conditions.
• Collect and provide scrap market intelligence and establish volume and price forecasts.
• Conduct comprehensive market research and analysis to maintain a strong understanding of global market forces, commodity fundamentals, and price forecasting techniques to identify trading opportunities.
• Develop strategic business planning processes to identify new markets.
• Execute physical metal trades with global clients (refineries, smelters, manufacturers, traders).
• Analyse market trends, LME/COMEX pricing, and FX risks to optimize trade margins.
• Use advanced trading systems and tools to monitor market activity and pricing.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, customers, and other key stakeholders in the industry.

Logistics & Operations:

• Coordinate international shipments, freight, customs, and warehousing.
• Work with internal logistics and finance teams to ensure timely and compliant delivery.
• Resolve cross-border trade issues, especially in high-risk or politically sensitive regions.
• Risk & Compliance:
• Develop and implement risk management strategies to mitigate risks related to market fluctuations, credit, and exposure, ensuring all trading activities are aligned with the company's strategy, policies, and risk appetite.
• Perform supplier audits with focus on quality, HSE, CSR and compliance.
• Ensure all trading activities comply with global standards such as OECD guidelines, AML/KYC, anti-corruption, and conflict mineral regulations.
• Monitor geopolitical risks, currency fluctuations, and market volatility related to African regions.
• Prepare regular market updates and actionable insights, trading performance analyses and financial reports for the review of senior management.

Key Qualifications and Criteria

• Bachelors or Masters in International Business, Finance, Economics, Trade, or a related field.
• 15 to 20 years experience in minerals and metals trading, with strong exposure to African markets.
• Candidates with successful track record at major minerals and metals trading houses will be preferred.
• Solid network of contacts among African producers, miners, exporters, and government bodies.
• Willingness to travel frequently to Africa and other sourcing/buying regions.
• In-depth understanding of global minerals and metals markets.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and cross-cultural communication skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make strategic decisions.
• Proficiency in trading platforms and financial software.
• High-level of integrity and professionalism.