Head of Trading

Role Overview : We are looking for a seasoned trading professional to lead the international procurement and trading of edible oils for our growing business. The Head – Trading will be responsible for sourcing crude and refined oils (such as palm, soya, sunflower, etc.) from global markets, managing price risk, and optimizing landed costs while ensuring a seamless supply chain. This is a high-impact leadership role that demands global market fluency, strategic foresight, and hands-on execution capability.

Key Responsibilities :

1. International Sourcing & Trading :

Lead procurement of edible oils from key origins such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Argentina, Ukraine, etc.

Identify, evaluate, and manage supplier relationships including global producers, trading houses, and brokers.

Negotiate contracts, payment terms, and commercial clauses aligned with risk mitigation goals.

2. Market Intelligence & Price Forecasting :

Monitor global commodity trends, trade policies, weather patterns, and geopolitical developments impacting edible oil prices.

Provide short- and long-term market outlooks to guide procurement timing and decisions.

3. Risk Management & Hedging :

Develop and execute hedging strategies using futures, options, and OTC instruments (e.g., via exchanges like BMD, CBOT, etc.).

Coordinate with finance and treasury teams to manage forex exposure and working capital impact.

4. Logistics & Supply Chain Coordination :

Ensure timely execution of import contracts including shipping, freight negotiations, port clearances, and inland movement.

Collaborate with the SCM and Manufacturing teams to align procurement volumes with production plans and demand forecasts.

5. Regulatory & Commercial Compliance :

Ensure full compliance with international trade laws, DGFT norms, import documentation, and FSSAI requirements.

Handle letters of credit, insurance, shipping documents, and customs processes end-to-end.

6. P&L Accountability :

Own and drive the trading P&L for the edible oil category, ensuring cost efficiency, inventory optimization, and margin protection.

7. Team Leadership & Stakeholder Management :

Lead a team of traders, analysts, and commercial staff.

Coordinate with CXOs, business units, and external partners to ensure transparent, timely, and data-driven decisions.

Qualifications & Experience :

MBA / PGDM in International Business, Supply Chain or related fields.

15+ years of experience in global trading and procurement of edible oils or agri-commodities.

Strong network in international trading circuits — especially Southeast Asia, South America, Black Sea region, etc.

Deep understanding of commodity markets, forex, trade finance, and import logistics.

Key Competencies :

Commercial acumen and sharp negotiation skills.

Proactive risk management and decision-making under volatility.

Strategic thinker with hands-on execution mindset.

Strong leadership and cross-cultural collaboration skills.

Excellent communication and relationship management.