Senior Research Analyst & Derivatives Trader
Position Overview
The Senior Research Analyst & Derivatives Trader is responsible for providing tanker market intelligence about the executing derivatives strategies that support the company’s (tanker owner and operator) freight, fuel, and commodity risk management objectives.
This role combines in-depth market research with active trading responsibilities, helping the company manage exposure to freight rate fluctuations, bunker fuel costs, and broader commodity market volatility. The position supports commercial decision-making across the tanker fleet by translating market insights into practical hedging and trading strategies.
The role will also contribute to the continued development of the company’s internal derivatives trading capability, supporting disciplined risk management and improved earnings stability.
Key Responsibilities
Market Research & Intelligence
- Conduct detailed research and analysis of tanker freight markets, vessel supply and demand, oil and refined product trade flows, bunker fuel markets, and relevant macroeconomic trends.
- Develop forward-looking market views, forecasts, and scenario analysis to support commercial strategy and fleet deployment decisions.
- Maintain and enhance internal market databases, financial models, and analytical dashboards tracking freight rates, time charter equivalents (TCE), fuel exposure, and market volatility.
- Prepare research reports, market updates, and executive briefings for senior commercial leadership.
Derivatives Trading & Risk Management
- Execute and manage freight derivatives, fuel hedging instruments, and related commodity derivatives within the company’s approved risk management framework.
- Design and recommend hedging strategies to manage exposure to freight rate movements, bunker costs, and earnings volatility.
- Monitor trading positions, profit and loss (P&L), margin requirements, and counterparty exposure.
- Ensure accurate trade capture, reporting, and compliance with internal controls and trading policies.
Trade Execution & Market Relationships
- Work closely with brokers, exchanges, clearing houses, and trading counterparties to ensure efficient trade execution and settlement.
- Support the development and implementation of trading policies, risk limits, and internal controls as the company expands its derivatives trading capabilities.
Commercial & Strategic Support
- Collaborate with Asset Management and Commercial teams to align trading strategies with fleet deployment, chartering activity, and portfolio optimization.
- Provide market insights to support strategic initiatives, including new market opportunities, energy transition considerations, and investment analysis.
- Partner with Strategy, Finance, Legal, and Risk teams to ensure compliance with internal governance and external regulatory requirements.
Organizational Support & Knowledge Sharing
- Support internal knowledge sharing on derivatives markets, freight market dynamics, and risk management practices.
- Provide analytical support for commercial initiatives and independently manage medium-complexity research and analysis projects.
Compliance & Professional Conduct
- Ensure all activities comply with company policies and the Code of Conduct and Business Ethics.
Core Competencies
Leadership & Collaboration
- Strategic thinking and commercial awareness
- Entrepreneurial mindset and initiative
- Strong relationship-building and communication skills
- Ability to work effectively across multiple business functions
Technical & Functional Skills
- Freight and commodity market analysis
- Derivatives trading and hedging strategies
- Financial modeling and data analysis
- Risk management and market forecasting
