Vacancy: Senior Bunker Trader (Dubai & Istanbul)

In partnership with a leading global energy & shipping group

I am collaborating with a major international energy and maritime trading organisation that is expanding its bunker trading capabilities across Dubai and Istanbul. The firm operates globally across more than 60+ countries, with multi‑office integration and a strong presence across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.

As part of their continued growth, they are seeking multiple Senior Bunker Traders to join their regional hubs. These roles offer significant commercial autonomy, a strong international platform, and the opportunity to grow a profitable, relationship‑driven portfolio.

Role Overview

The Senior Bunker Trader will be responsible for originating, negotiating and executing back‑to‑back marine fuel transactions while managing a diversified portfolio of shipowners, operators, charterers and suppliers.

This position carries direct revenue responsibility and requires a blend of commercial drive, market intelligence, and credit & risk discipline. Portfolio scope and responsibilities will scale with seniority.

Locations available:

• Dubai (UAE)
• Istanbul (Türkiye)

Key Responsibilities

1. Commercial Development & Revenue Growth

• Build, manage and expand a portfolio of shipping clients and suppliers.
• Generate new business via proactive outreach, structured engagement and market intelligence.
• Convert enquiries into repeat, profitable business while maintaining strong client relationships.
• Support the global growth strategy by expanding regional and international reach.

2. Trade Execution & Deal Management

• Execute physical bunker trades across HSFO, VLSFO, MGO and emerging marine fuels.
• Negotiate pricing, contractual terms and commercial structures to optimise margin.
• Monitor supply‑demand dynamics, regulations, price movements and physical positions.
• Structure trades in alignment with internal risk appetite and commercial targets.

3. Relationship Management

• Maintain high-quality relationships with shipowners, operators, brokers and suppliers.
• Provide guidance on grades, port availability, logistics, and compliance requirements.
• Coordinate with operations teams to ensure smooth deliveries and minimise claims.
• Troubleshoot operational challenges and safeguard customer experience.

4. Full Trade Lifecycle Ownership

• Manage the full bunker trade process: enquiry → pricing → confirmation → nomination → delivery → post‑fixture review.
• Ensure accuracy in documentation, CRM entries and system reporting.
• Maintain visibility over active pipelines and performance KPIs.

5. Credit, Risk & Compliance

• Operate within approved counterparty credit limits.
• Coordinate with internal credit teams on exposure monitoring and collections.
• Ensure all trades comply with sanctions, KYC and internal governance frameworks.
• Escalate any operational, credit or compliance risks promptly.

6. Internal Collaboration & Reporting

• Share cross‑regional market intelligence with colleagues across global offices.
• Provide regular reporting on portfolio performance, opportunities, and key commercial metrics.
• Contribute to initiatives exploring new ports, digitalisation, and alternative fuel solutions.

Candidate Profile

Seniority

Senior Bunker Trader (6+ years experience)

• Strong network across shipping, bunkering and supply markets.
• Demonstrated ability to grow and monetise a portfolio.
• Proven track record of delivering PnL in a fast-moving market environment.
• Ability to mentor junior traders (depending on experience).

Required Skills & Experience

• Experience in bunker trading, marine fuels, shipping, or physical oil products.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation abilities.
• Excellent understanding of global shipping markets, grades & logistics.
• High numerical aptitude with strong analytical capability.
• Fluent English; additional regional languages a plus (Arabic, Russian, Turkish).

Location-Specific Notes

Dubai

• Coverage of Middle East, Indian Subcontinent & Africa flows.
• Regional languages advantageous (Arabic, Hindi/Urdu, Russian).

Istanbul

• Strategic location for Mediterranean, Black Sea and European flows.
• Exposure to both supply and demand hubs with emerging growth markets.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive fixed salary (aligned with seniority).
• Performance‑based incentive structure.
• Clear career progression within a multi‑office global trading organisation.
• Strong operational support and compliance infrastructure.
• International exposure with opportunity to collaborate across multiple regions.

If you are an experienced bunker trader looking for a global platform, strong commercial autonomy, and the opportunity to grow a meaningful portfolio in either Dubai or Istanbul, I would be happy to share more details.

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