Naptha Trader

We are seeking a motivated and ambitious Light Ends Trader to join our trading team. The ideal candidate will have foundational knowledge of the light ends markets, strong analytical skills, and a keen interest in trading. This role will involve supporting the management of the desk trading portfolio, identifying market opportunities (especially in West Africa), and executing trades to maximize profitability.
Additionally, the candidate must have experience of doing business in West Africa, and be fluent in both English and French.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business, Economics, Finance, Computer Science, or a related field.
• Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in naphtha trading, energy trading, or a related role within the commodities sector.
• Market Knowledge: Basic understanding of the naphtha market, including supply chains, pricing mechanisms, and key market players.
• Sustainability: Understanding of supply-chain traceability and sustainability schemes, segregated/mass-balance schemes, ISCC-type certification and trading obligations.
• Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and quantitative skills with the ability to interpret complex data and make informed decisions.
• Communication: Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to build and maintain professional relationships.
• Language: Candidate must be bilingual (fluent) in both English and French.
• Technology: Proficiency in MS Office Suite, and advanced skills in Python, Java, and Power BI.
• Compliance: Knowledge of relevant regulatory requirements and compliance standards in commodities trading.
• FX: Candidate must have keen awareness of managing FX risk in emerging markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Market Analysis: Assist in conducting market research and analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and risks in the light ends markets.
• Trading Strategy: Support the development and implementation of trading strategies to optimize the naphtha trading portfolio.
• Trade Execution: Assist in executing trades efficiently, ensuring compliance with company policies and regulatory requirements.
• Risk Management: Help monitor and manage market risks, including price volatility, supply disruptions, and geopolitical factors.
• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with key market participants, including suppliers, customers, and other traders.
• Reporting: Prepare regular reports on market conditions, trading activities, and portfolio performance for senior traders and management.
• Collaboration: Work closely with the research, logistics, and risk management teams to support trading activities and ensure seamless operations.

Competencies

• Decision-Making: Ability to make informed decisions under guidance.
• Attention to Detail: Meticulous attention to detail and a high degree of accuracy.
• Team Player: Collaborative mindset with the ability to work effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Integrity: High ethical standards and integrity in all trading activities.

Key Relationships

• Naphtha Traders
• Mogas Traders
• Renewables / Sustainability team.
• Data Analysis team
• Operations team
• Deals Desk team

Department

The naphtha trading desk is responsible for the buying, selling, and risk management of naphtha, a key feedstock in petrochemical production and gasoline blending. The team conducts market analysis, develops trading strategies, executes trades, and manages relationships with suppliers and customers to optimize profitability and mitigate market risks. Additionally, the desk engages in paper trading of naphtha, using financial derivatives to hedge physical positions and speculate on market movements. Leveraging data analytics and technology, including algorithmic trading and data visualization tools, the desk ensures informed and strategic trading decisions.

At the heart of global supply, Trafigura connects vital resources to power and build the world. Through our Metals and Minerals, Oil & Petroleum Products and Gas, Power and Renewables, commercial divisions, we use infrastructure, logistics, and financing to connect producers and consumers, using our deep understanding of the markets we serve to make supply more efficient, secure, and sustainable.

We are accelerating our investments in renewable energy, including hydrogen, ammonia, and other low-carbon energy technologies required for the transition to a low carbon future. We are committed to responsible business practices and we work with our stakeholders to improve environmental and social standards, bringing greater trust and transparency to global supply chains.

A career at Trafigura offers a gateway to working on some of the most exciting challenges of a rapidly changing world – from helping to optimize supply chains to developing infrastructure and new markets. In a culture that is founded on openness and energy, our people work as part of a multinational, globally connected team and thrive in a fast-paced environment where they can nurture and commercialize bold ideas. Everyone has a voice and is empowered to collaborate across geographies and disciplines to help shape our business and the wider world. We know the importance and value of diversity in our business and we invest in attracting, developing, and retaining talent from all backgrounds.

Founded in 1993, Trafigura is one of the largest independent employee-owned commodities groups in the world with over 12,000 people working across more than 60 offices. The Trafigura Group owns global multi-metals producer Nyrstar; fuel storage and distribution company Puma Energy; and joint ventures Impala Terminals, a port and logistics provider, and Nalo Renewables, investing in wind, solar, and battery storage projects.