Head of Shipping

About the role

The Head of Shipping leads the company's shipping and freight function, ensuring safe, compliant and cost‑efficient transportation of physical commodity cargoes. This senior position acts as the key interface between trading, operations and the shipping market.

Key responsibilities

• Lead vessel chartering activities, negotiate freight rates and charter party terms.
• Manage freight market exposure using FFAs and other freight derivatives.
• Oversee vessel nomination, scheduling, performance monitoring and compliance with SIRE and vetting standards.
• Direct demurrage calculations, claims handling and dispute resolution.
• Build and maintain relationships with shipowners, brokers and P&I clubs.
• Ensure regulatory, sanctions and HSE compliance across the fleet.
• Collaborate with Trading, Operations and Legal to align shipping strategy.
• Lead, develop and mentor the shipping and chartering team.

Required profile

• 10‑15 years of experience in shipping, chartering or freight trading within commodity trading, shipowning or shipbroking environments.
• Proven track record in vessel chartering, freight risk management and demurrage/claims oversight.
• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Studies, Logistics, Business, Engineering or related field; chartering qualification (e.g., ICS) desirable.

Required skills

• Freight derivatives expertise, including FFAs.
• ERP/ETRM system knowledge, preferably SAP functional skills.