Freight Trading Assistant

COFCO International is a global agri-business with a clear vision, strong values and a positive culture, focused on being a leader in the global grains, oilseeds and sugar supply chains. We provide the food the world needs in a responsible way. Headquartered is Geneva, Switzerland, we are ambitious, with the right structures and culture to meet the world's increasing and changing needs. With 11,000+ people in 35 countries, our global portfolio includes assets across the Americas, Europe, Africa, Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. We trade with over 50 nations, while providing farmers unique direct access to the growing Chinese market.

Position Overview

As a Freight Trading Assistant, you will support the commercial shipping function within a global agricultural commodities trading environment. You will work closely with freight traders, operators, and cross-functional teams to assist in chartering activities, vessel operations, market analysis, and post-fixture processes.

This role is ideal for a recent graduate or candidate with up to 2–3 years of relevant experience looking to build a career in freight trading and dry bulk shipping.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the freight team in executing chartering strategies and day-to-day vessel operations
• Monitor vessel positions and movements using AIS platforms and internal systems
• Assist in fixture recap preparation, nominations, charter party drafting, and post-fixture administration
• Collect, track, and analyse freight market data (e.g., Baltic indices, bunker prices, vessel supply trends)
• Conduct market research on dry bulk commodities and trade flows to support commercial decisions
• Assist in preparing voyage estimates, P&L calculations, and freight exposure reports
• Liaise with shipowners, brokers, agents, and port service providers to ensure smooth operations
• Maintain internal databases and contribute to reporting accuracy and process efficiency
• Support digitalisation and process improvement initiatives within the freight team

Learning & Development Opportunities

• Exposure to global dry bulk shipping markets and chartering practices
• Hands-on involvement in voyage execution and freight trading processes
• Understanding of the end-to-end agri-commodity supply chain
• Development of commercial awareness, analytical skills, and negotiation exposure
• Mentorship from experienced chartering and operations professionals

Qualifications & Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics, Business, Economics, or a related field
• 0–3 years of experience in shipping, chartering, operations, or commodity trading (internship experience is acceptable for fresh graduates)
• Strong interest in global trade, commodities, and freight markets
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint (knowledge of VBA or data tools is a plus)
• Familiarity with AIS tracking systems or freight platforms (e.g., IMOS) is advantageous
• Strong analytical and numerical skills with attention to detail
• Proactive, adaptable, and able to work in a fast-paced environment
• Good interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work across teams
• Strong written and verbal communication in English (Mandarin or other languages are an advantage in trading environments)

What We Offer

• A dynamic and commercially driven international trading environment
• Direct exposure to chartering and freight trading activities
• Mentorship from experienced professionals
• Opportunities to take ownership and contribute to real commercial decisions

COFCO International is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by law.

Please refer to our Candidate Privacy Notice to know how COFCO collects and processes your personal data during your job application.