Principal Energy Trader

Placements24; Durban; Hybrid; ZAR 1,800,000 - 3,000,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive base salary

Performance-based bonuses

Long-term incentive plan

Comprehensive health insurance

Retirement savings plan

Professional growth opportunities

Hybrid in Durban with in-office and at

Job summary

Placements24 seeks a Principal Energy Trader to lead our Durban trading desk, shaping energy strategies across electricity, gas, and coal. You will manage risk, optimize portfolios, and drive revenue in both physical and derivatives markets.

You will mentor junior traders, collaborate with risk and compliance teams, and report performance to senior management in a dynamic Durban environment that blends office presence with flexible work options.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related quantitative field.
• Master's degree or MBA is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in energy trading, portfolio management, or a closely related role within the energy industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in trading electricity, natural gas, or other energy commodities.
• Strong understanding of financial markets, derivatives, hedging strategies, and risk management principles.
• Proficiency in market data platforms (e.g., Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon) and trading systems.
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proven ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage risk effectively.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex market views.
• Familiarity with South African energy market structures and regulations is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement effective trading strategies for various energy commodities (e.g., electricity, natural gas, coal) in both physical and derivatives markets.
• Monitor energy market trends, news, and data to identify trading opportunities and potential risks.
• Execute trades efficiently and accurately, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Manage the company's energy trading portfolio, including risk exposure and position limits.
• Analyze market data, price fluctuations, and economic indicators to forecast market movements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with market participants, brokers, and counterparties.
• Collaborate with the risk management team to establish and monitor risk parameters.
• Prepare regular trading performance reports, market analysis, and P&L statements for senior management.
• Stay informed about regulatory changes and market reforms impacting the energy trading landscape.
• Mentor junior traders and contribute to the overall development of the trading team.

Skills

Energy trading

Portfolio management

Risk management

Derivatives

Market analysis

Quantitative analytics

Decision making under pressure

Negotiation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or related quantitative field

Master's degree or MBA preferred

Tools

Bloomberg

Refinitiv Eikon

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a prominent entity in the Energy sector, is seeking an experienced and strategic Principal Energy Trader to join their trading desk in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal . This senior position is responsible for managing the company's energy portfolio, executing trading strategies in physical and financial markets, and optimizing revenue streams. The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of energy market dynamics, risk management principles, and sophisticated trading methodologies. You will play a vital role in navigating complex market conditions, identifying profitable opportunities, and mitigating potential risks. This is a challenging and rewarding opportunity to contribute significantly to the financial performance and strategic direction of a leading energy company. We are looking for a proactive individual with a proven track record in energy trading and a sharp analytical mind to thrive in this demanding environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement effective trading strategies for various energy commodities (e.g., electricity, natural gas, coal) in both physical and derivatives markets.
• Monitor energy market trends, news, and data to identify trading opportunities and potential risks.
• Execute trades efficiently and accurately, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Manage the company's energy trading portfolio, including risk exposure and position limits.
• Analyze market data, price fluctuations, and economic indicators to forecast market movements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with market participants, brokers, and counterparties.
• Collaborate with the risk management team to establish and monitor risk parameters.
• Prepare regular trading performance reports, market analysis, and P&L statements for senior management.
• Stay informed about regulatory changes and market reforms impacting the energy trading landscape.
• Mentor junior traders and contribute to the overall development of the trading team.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Economics, Mathematics, Engineering, or a related quantitative field.
• A Master's degree or MBA is preferred.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in energy trading, portfolio management, or a closely related role within the energy industry.
• Demonstrated expertise in trading electricity, natural gas, or other energy commodities.
• Strong understanding of financial markets, derivatives, hedging strategies, and risk management principles.
• Proficiency in market data platforms (e.g., Bloomberg, Refinitiv Eikon) and trading systems.
• Excellent analytical, quantitative, and problem-solving skills, with a keen eye for detail.
• Proven ability to make sound decisions under pressure and manage risk effectively.
• Strong negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to articulate complex market views.
• Familiarity with South African energy market structures and regulations is a plus.
• High level of integrity and ethical conduct.

Benefits

• Our client provides a highly competitive base salary, performance-based bonuses, and an attractive long-term incentive plan.
• Comprehensive health insurance, retirement savings plan, and other benefits are included.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development are emphasized, with support for further certifications and industry engagement.
• The company fosters a dynamic and collaborative trading environment in Durban , offering a blend of in-office and remote work flexibility.
• This role presents a significant opportunity to influence trading strategies and impact the financial success of a key player in the South African Energy market.