Senior Copper Trader

Our client is a global trader of Base, Non-Ferrous metals, based in London.

The role is aimed at an experienced Base Metals trader, ideally with experience in Copper Cathodes and/or wire rod, who will support the expansion of the copper trading business. This new growth phase will focus on the development of African-origin copper cathode trading and the impressive expansion of business activities across the EMEA region.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Trading & Business Development:

• Develop and expand trading activities in copper cathode, wire rod, and related base metal products across Europe and the Middle East, including sourcing from Africa.
• Actively develop sales channels for copper cathodes, strengthening the firm’s competitiveness in Europe and opening new customer flows in the Middle East.
• Expand customer network by identifying new end-users and trading counterparties.
• Develop procurement and sourcing opportunities not fully covered by existing global operations.

Value Chain Expansion:

• Promote business expansion across the copper value chain from cathode to wire rod and downstream products, leveraging existing customer relationships and market knowledge.
• Structure and execute back-to-back and solution-oriented transactions tailored to customer needs.

Risk Management & Execution:

• Structure contracts and manage risks inherent in trading activities, including market risk, credit risk, logistics risk, contractual terms, legal and regulatory requirements, and tax (including VAT).
• Liaise closely with middle office, back office, and relevant corporate functions (Legal, Risk Management, Accounting/Tax, Treasury) in the execution of transactions.
• Ensure all trading activities comply with internal policies and external regulations.
• Collaborate with Legal and middle office teams in preparing and negotiating contractual documentation.
• Timely and accurately record all trades in internal contract and risk management systems.

Strategic Contribution:

• Contribute market insight and commercial perspectives to broader copper-related initiatives, including potential investments in mining, smelting, recycling, and decarbonisation-related projects, when required.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven track record in copper cathode and/or wire rod trading, with demonstrated ability to originate and grow business.
• Hands-on trading experience with African-origin copper cathodes is preferred, including sourcing, quality considerations, logistics, and customer delivery.
• Trading experience in copper concentrate, including exposure to mine offtake, smelter negotiations, and concentrate market dynamics is desirable.
• Strong ability to identify new business opportunities and build customer flows from scratch.
• Established relationships with copper producers, traders, smelters, and end-users in Europe, Africa, and/or the Middle East.
• Solid understanding of logistics, warehousing, freight, and trade execution in international commodity markets.
• Experience in credit risk management and trade finance.
• Ability to work independently while engaging management appropriately.
• Professional written and spoken English. Additional languages are beneficial.
• Strong interpersonal skills; team-oriented and effective communicator.
• Willingness and ability to travel across Europe, the Middle East, and other regions as required.
• Ability to perform consistently under pressure.
• Intermediate proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.

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