Waf Trader

TORQ COMMODITIES is seeking a strategic and results-driven WAF Trader to join our team. In this pivotal role, you will be focused on trading West African focused commodities, maximizing profitability while managing risk through keen market analysis and relationship management. You will work directly with suppliers in the region, offering our clients tailored solutions that meet their specifications. This position requires a blend of financial acumen, industry knowledge, and interpersonal skills to navigate the complexities of the commodities market.

**Key Responsibilities**:
The **WAF Agri Trader** will be responsible for **origination, execution, and growth of agricultural trade flows** in West Africa (imports and exports). You will be given direct P&L responsibility for your book, freedom to build counterparties, and support from our structured finance, logistics, and risk teams.
- Originate agricultural commodity flows in WAF (cocoa, cashews, sesame, soybeans, maize, palm oil, etc.).
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with local producers, cooperatives, exporters, and government agencies.
- Negotiate and execute physical contracts (purchase/sales, freight, warehousing).
- Identify arbitrage and trading opportunities across global and regional markets.
- Travel frequently in West Africa to strengthen origination and gather market intelligence.
- Manage P&L of your own book with accountability for profitability and risk.
- Work closely with operations, risk, and structured finance to ensure smooth deal execution.
- Contribute to shaping our WAF agri strategy and scaling the regional platform.

**Requirements**:

- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Business, Economics, or a related field; Master’s or MBA preferred.
- 5-10 years’ proven experience in agricultural commodities trading, ideally with exposure to **West African crops**.
- Strong analytical skills and proficiency in pricing models and trading strategies.
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic trading environment.
- A strong network of suppliers and buyers in key WAF countries (Ivory Coast, Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, Senegal).
- Demonstrated ability to **originate deals** and build sustainable trade flows.
- Commercial mindset with entrepreneurial drive; ability to thrive in a **lean, fast-moving trading house**.
- Good understanding of trade finance, contracts, and logistics in emerging markets.
- Proficiency in risk management and hedging tools.
- Proven track record in risk management and successfully executing trades.
- Fluency in English required; proficiency in French or local languages of West Africa is a plus.
- Willingness to travel frequently to West Africa for supplier relations and market engagement.

**Benefits**
- A dynamic and collaborative work environment.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.