Director/General Manager, Iron Ore and Coking Coal Trader
Our client is a Fortune 500 global commodities trading and supply chain enterprise with extensive operations across Asia-Pacific, India, Latin America, and Australia.
The business is a market leader in the physical trading of metallic minerals, energy, and bulk commodities, with its Singapore office serving as a strategic regional hub for international trading.
The company is now seeking to strengthen its global trading capabilities with a senior leader who can drive growth in iron ore and coking coal markets outside the traditional majors.
The Role
This position is suited to an experienced trader at Director or General Manager level who can lead, grow, and manage a new overseas trading operation.
The successful candidate will bring deep knowledge of the iron ore and coking coal markets, a strong commercial network, and the ability to build a profitable trading desk focused on India, Latin America, and Australia.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead physical trading of iron ore and coking coal with full P&L ownership
- Build and manage relationships with non-mainstream suppliers and steel mill buyers
- Develop business plans demonstrating access to alternative supply channels beyond the major producers
- Oversee end-to-end trading activities including contract negotiation, logistics, and risk management
- Establish and mentor a Singapore-based trading team, fostering strong commercial capability
- Identify and capitalise on arbitrage opportunities across global markets
- Collaborate with internal teams in finance, operations, and risk to optimise performance and compliance
- Monitor market dynamics, freight trends, and pricing to inform trading strategy
- Maintain robust relationships across the full supply chain, from mine operators to end-users
Requirements
- 10–15 years’ experience in physical trading of iron ore and/or coking coal
- Proven record of P&L responsibility and successful deal execution
- Established network of suppliers and steel producers beyond the four major mining companies
- Director or GM-level experience with a track record of building or managing trading teams
- Deep understanding of product specifications, logistics, and pricing mechanisms
- Regional trading experience across Australia, India, Latin America, or Brazil
- Strong commercial acumen, negotiation skills, and analytical capability
- Bachelor’s degree in business, economics, finance, or related field (advanced degree preferred)
Preferred Attributes
- Experience in both iron ore and coking coal trading
- Proven ability to establish and grow new trading operations
- Relationship-driven trading style with a track record of profitability
- Background working with major trading houses or SOEs
- Understanding of Asian, Indian, and Latin American steel markets
- Entrepreneurial mindset with strong strategic and leadership skills
- Ability to operate effectively in multicultural and cross-functional environments
Location
- Based in Singapore (relocation support available for exceptional candidates)
- English fluency required; Mandarin Chinese is beneficial but not essential
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