Senior Vessel Operations Officer

COFCO International; Stellenbosch; On-site; ZAR 200 000 - 300 000; Full time

Job summary

A global commodities firm in Western Cape, Stellenbosch is seeking a Senior Vessel Operations Officer to lead and optimize vessel operations. The role involves managing import/export operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enhancing supply chain processes. Ideal candidates have a Bachelor's degree, 5+ years in agricultural commodity operations, and strong skills in vessel operations and international trade. This position offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of experience in agricultural commodity operations, ideally with grains and oil seeds.
• Professional certifications in Logistics/Vessel operations or compliance management preferred.
• 3-5 years of proven experience in vessel operations and international trade.

Responsibilities

• Manage efficient vessel operations and execution of contracts.
• Ensure compliance with agricultural regulations.
• Deliver exceptional customer service.
• Lead and develop the vessel operations team.

Skills

Vessel operations experience

Supervisory skills

Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel

Knowledge of international trade regulations

Risk management

Transportation coordination

Education

Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or related field

Grade 12

Tools

Integrated Trading system

Job description

Senior Vessel Operations Officer

Job Location: Western Cape, Stellenbosch

Deadline: January 04, 2026

Job Purpose

To lead and optimize vessel operations within COFCO's agricultural commodity business, ensuring seamless import/export operations, follow-up all aspects of international contract execution and logistics associated with physical cargo delivery, while maintaining regulatory compliance. The role drives operational excellence through strategic supply chain management, cost optimization, risk mitigation and delivering excellent customer service, to support the company's growth objectives.

Key Performance Areas

Vessel Operations Management

• Manage efficient vessel operations, execution of contracts and monitoring shipment for imports/exports while optimizing cost performance.
• Ensure overall execution from origin to final destinations in accordance with contract terms and conditions. This includes, amongst others, ensuring notices sent/received in time, following up of loading and discharging operations, applicable and adequate financial security of payment in place and compliant with contractual terms before goods delivery, documents handling etc.
• Stock management, insurance declaration, follow up and settlement of claims.
• Record daily trading Operations in our Integrated Trading system and other corporate portals.
• Close coordination with Traders and ensure smooth flow of information between various departments such as, Credit Risk, Trade Finance, Accounting, Insurance & Legal and other corporate Departments.

Supply Chain Optimization

• Manage, develop and implement cost-effective supply chain strategies to reduce storage and handling costs while improving distribution efficiency.

Regulatory Compliance and Risk Management

• Manage and maintain 100% compliance with agricultural regulations and minimize operational risks through proactive risk management.

Customer Relationship Management

• Manage and deliver exceptional customer service with suppliers, customers, inspection companies etc., while maintaining strong relationships that support business growth and customer retention.

International Operations Business Development

• Identify and develop new opportunities to enhance marketability of COFCO commodities and support business growth.

People Management and Team Development

• Lead, develop, and manage the vessel operations team to ensure optimal performance, capability building, and employee engagement that supports operational excellence and organisational objectives.

Minimum Criteria

• Grade 12
• Bachelor’s degree in agriculture, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or related field
• 5 years minimum experience in agricultural commodity operations, essential exposure to grains, oil seeds commodity
• Professional certifications in Logistics / Vessel operations or compliance management preferred

Skills, Knowledge and Experience required

• 3-5 years proven experience in vessel operations and international trade
• 3-5 years proven experience in supervisory / team leadership
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and relevant IT systems
• Knowledge of international trade regulations and phytosanitary requirements
• Strong background in regulatory compliance and risk management
• Experience with transportation coordination and contract management

Advantageous requirements

• Certified Supply Chain Professional -membership (CSCP)
• Certified International Trade Professional (CITP)
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Maritime/Shipping qualifications or certifications

Competencies

• Deciding and Initiating Action
• Strong Analytical ability
• Planning and organizing
• Leading and Supervising
• Delivering Results and Meeting Customer Expectations
• Following Instructions and Procedures
• Adapting and Responding to Change
• Adhering to Principles and Values
• Coping with Pressures and Setbacks
• Autonomous
• Pro-active
• Solution oriented
• Achieving Personal Work Goals and Objectives
• Presenting and Communicating Information
• Relating and Networking
• Learning and Researching
• Excellent time management