Chartering Manager (Dry Bulk)

Overview

The Chartering Manager is responsible for leading end-to-end freight procurement and chartering activities across Asia-focused commodity trading operations. This role plays a key part in securing cost-effective and reliable shipping solutions for steel products, iron ore, coking coal, and ferrous/non-ferrous scrap cargoes. Working closely with trading, operations, and logistics teams, the incumbent will support the efficient movement of commodities across regional and international markets.

Key Responsibilities

• Source, negotiate, and charter dry bulk vessels across various vessel segments, including Handysize, Supramax, Panamax, and Capesize.
• Manage container freight procurement and booking arrangements for raw materials and finished steel products.
• Negotiate freight rates, charter party terms, Contracts of Affreightment (COAs), laytime provisions, and demurrage agreements.
• Develop and maintain strong working relationships with shipowners, vessel operators, brokers, and logistics service providers throughout Asia.
• Monitor freight market conditions and provide commercial insights on market trends, freight pricing, and vessel availability.
• Coordinate vessel nominations, laycan schedules, and post-fixture operations to ensure smooth execution of shipments.
• Handle demurrage and despatch claims while resolving freight-related disputes and operational issues.
• Ensure compliance with relevant safety standards, vessel vetting requirements, sanctions regulations, and insurance policies.
• Support freight budgeting processes and identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and reduce logistics costs.
• Collaborate with internal stakeholders to ensure timely and effective transportation of cargoes.

Requirements

Essential Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum 5 years of experience in chartering, freight procurement, or shipping operations.
• Exposure to both dry bulk and containerized cargo transportation.
• Experience handling commodities such as steel, iron ore, coal, scrap metal, or other bulk materials.
• Strong understanding of freight markets, charter party agreements, laytime calculations, and demurrage processes.
• Demonstrated negotiation, commercial, and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to analyze market conditions and make informed chartering decisions.

Preferred Qualifications

• Established network of shipowners, operators, brokers, and logistics providers within China, Korea, and the broader Asian market.
• Experience within commodity trading, shipping, logistics, or freight procurement environments.
• Qualification in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Logistics, Supply Chain, or a related discipline.
• Professional certifications such as ICS or equivalent maritime accreditation.
• Familiarity with international trade, freight contracting, and shipping regulations.