Trade Finance Specialist

Our client is a leading firm in the Oil & Gas and Energy Commodity Trading sectors, renowned for its commitment to excellence and innovation. With a focus on delivering high-quality products and services, the company fosters a positive work environment that encourages growth and technological advancement. As part of its ongoing expansion, the company is seeking a dynamic individual to join its team as a Trade Finance Specialist.

Job Summary:

Our client, a prominent entity in the Oil & Gas and Energy Commodity Trading sectors, is seeking a seasoned and meticulous Trade Finance Specialist. The role emphasizes leveraging AI-driven tools to improve efficiency, risk assessment, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in energy sector trade finance, a robust understanding of cross-border trading, deal structuring, and trade instruments, and proficiency in utilizing AI technologies to streamline processes and support strategic decision-making. A comprehensive grasp of international trade, banking instruments, and oil & gas logistics is essential.

Key Responsibilities:

• Originate and execute profitable oil and gas trading deals across West Africa, including spot and term contracts.

• Utilize AI algorithms to analyze vast datasets, including market trends and financial indicators, to assess counterparty creditworthiness and predict potential risks.

• Implement AI-driven systems to monitor transactions in real-time, identifying anomalies and ensuring adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations.

• Structure, coordinate, and manage trade finance transactions including Letters of Credit (LCs), Standby LCs, Bank Guarantees, Bills for Collection, and Documentary Credits.

• Familiarity with AI tools that evaluate the creditworthiness of trading partners and detect fraudulent activities enhances risk management strategies.

• Staying updated with evolving AI technologies and their applications in trade finance ensures the adoption of best practices and maintains a competitive edge in the industry.

• Collaborate with traders and operations teams to analyze financing needs, recommend optimal structures, and secure competitive financing solutions.

• Manage relationships with local and international banks, DFIs, and trade finance providers to support trading deals.

• Monitor and manage the execution and settlement of oil & gas trades in compliance with internal policies and international regulations.

• Review and negotiate trade finance documentation (e.g., LC terms, facility agreements, performance bonds).

• Ensure timely documentation and reporting of trade finance transactions for both internal stakeholders and external auditors.

• Support risk mitigation efforts by assessing the creditworthiness of counterparties and recommending insurance or hedging solutions.

• Stay updated on trade finance trends, FX exposure management, and regional banking practices.

• Work closely with legal and compliance teams to ensure alignment with sanctions laws, KYC/AML requirements, and industry standards.

Key Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field. A Master's degree or professional certifications (CITF, CDCS, CFA, or ACCA) is an added advantage.

• 610 years of experience in Trade Finance within the Oil & Gas sector or commodity trading environment.

• Proven expertise in structuring trade deals involving oil products such as PMS, AGO, DPK, LPG, and crude oil.

• Deep understanding of international trade regulations, UCP 600, Incoterms, SWIFT messaging, and trade documentation.

• Strong knowledge of structured and supply chain finance, credit risk, and treasury operations.

• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills across banks, clients, vendors, and internal teams.

• Familiarity with cross-border trade flows, logistics documentation (BLs, invoices, inspection reports), and customs processes.

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and trade finance platforms.

• Fluency in English required; French is a plus for Francophone West African transactions

Core Competencies

• Trade Finance Structuring

• Banking & Credit Risk Knowledge

• Oil & Gas Trading Familiarity

• Contract & Documentation Review

• Regulatory & Compliance Awareness

• Stakeholder Relationship Management

• Financial Modeling & Reporting

• Attention to Detail & Execution Speed