Commodity Trader
Job Title: Dairy Trader
Location: Netherlands
Reports To: Trading Manager/Head of Desk
Department: Agricultural Commodities Trading
Job Purpose
The Dairy Trader will be responsible for trading a portfolio of dairy commodities as SMP, WMP, butter, AMF, whey powders, and other value added proteins across international markets. The role combines commercial acumen, market analysis, risk management, and relationship building to drive profitable trading strategies and expand market presence.
Key Responsibilities
Trading & Commercial Execution
- Buy and sell physical dairy commodities in targeted regional and global markets.
- Execute trades in line with risk limits, market conditions, and company strategy.
- Monitor and interpret commodity exchanges, futures markets, and derivatives to hedge exposure and optimise margins.
- Identify arbitrage opportunities across origins, destinations, and product forms.
Market Analysis
- Conduct ongoing analysis of supply/demand, macroeconomic trends, price drivers, and competitive landscape.
- Track market movements across Europe, MENA, Asia, and the Americas.
- Prepare regular internal market reports and contribute to trading strategy discussions.
Relationship Management
- Develop strong relationships with suppliers (processors, cooperatives, traders) and customers (manufacturers, importers, distributors).
- Negotiate pricing, contract terms, shipping, and payment structures.
- Maintain an active presence in the market through travel and industry networking.
Risk, Logistics & Operations
- Manage end to end trade cycle: contracting, shipment planning, documentation, and issue resolution.
- Work closely with logistics, finance, and risk teams to ensure smooth trade execution.
- Monitor contract performance, exposure, P&L, and credit risk.
Qualifications & Experience
- Bachelor's degree in Business, Economics, Agriculture, Food Science, or a related field.
- Experience in dairy, agri-commodities, or broader physical trading (coffee, dairy, proteins, sugar, etc.) is preferred.
- Strong understanding of commodity trading dynamics, futures markets, and global supply chains.
- Established network within the dairy sector is an advantage but not essential.
- Proficiency in using trading tools and market data platforms.
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong analytical and numerical skills.
- Excellent negotiation and communication abilities.
- Entrepreneurial mindset with a proactive, profit-driven approach.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and make decisions under pressure.
- Fluency in English; additional European or Asian languages a plus.
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