Operations Specialist

About This Role

The Operations Specialist will be responsible for the end-to-end execution of trading transactions, ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant movement of goods from supplier to customer. The role supports commercial teams by managing logistics, documentation, shipment coordination, and operational risk, ensuring seamless delivery and protecting the company’s commercial margins.

Key Responsibilities:

A. Trade Execution & Shipment Coordination

• Coordinate the full execution cycle of trades from contract confirmation to final delivery.
• Liaise with suppliers, buyers, freight forwarders, shipping lines, agents, surveyors, and inspection companies.
• Monitor shipment schedules, vessel nominations, loading/discharge operations, and ensure timely cargo movement.
• Prepare and verify shipping instructions, booking confirmations, and operational updates.

B. Documentation Management

Prepare, review, and manage all traderelated documents (including bills of lading, certificates of origin, packing lists, commercial invoices, dangerous goods declarations (where applicable), quality and quantity certificates, phytosanitary certificates (if required), ensure all documents comply with contractual terms and regulatory standards).

C. Contract Administration

Ensure accurate interpretation and execution of sales and purchase contracts, track contractual obligations, deadlines, and operational milestones, maintain updated records in internal systems (Odoo, CTRM, ERP).

D. Logistics & Supply Chain Coordination

Arrange inland transportation, warehousing, and port operations when required. Monitor cargo readiness, loading windows, and vessel schedules. Coordinate with finance for payment schedules and document submission.

E. Risk, Compliance & Quality Control

Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, chemical handling standards, and UAE import/export rules. Monitor operational risks and escalate issues proactively (delays, quality deviations, demurrage exposure). Ensure safe handling and movement of chemical/fertilizer cargoes in line with HSE requirements.

F. Demurrage & Claims

Track laytime, loading/discharge operations, and potential demurrage exposure. Prepare laytime calculations and assist in dispute resolution. Coordinate claims with counterparties, surveyors, and internal stakeholders.

G. Internal Coordination & Reporting

Provide timely operational updates to traders, finance, and management. Maintain accurate shipment trackers, cost sheets, and operational KPIs. Support audit requirements and ensure proper document archiving.

Requirements* Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business Administration, Chemical Engineering, or related field.

• 2–5 years of experience in operations within a commodity trading company (fertilizers, chemicals, grains, metals, or similar).
• Strong understanding of international shipping, incoterms, and trade documentation.
• Experience with hazardous cargo or chemical logistics is an advantage.
• Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook).
• Experience with ERP/CTRM systems (Odoo, SAP, CRM etc.) preferred.
• Strong understanding of Incoterms and international logistics.

Benefits* Full-time position, on-site in Dubai

• Competitive salary
• Opportunity to work in the developing industry
• Professional growth and long-term career prospects