Job details
For one of our clients, a leading international trading company, we are seeking a Senior Grains Trading Operations professional to anchor and build the operations function in French-speaking Switzerland. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced operator to set up processes from scratch, train a small team, and ensure smooth execution of international grain contracts across EMEA. The role requires solid expertise in GAFTA, contract execution, and stakeholder coordination across the full supply chain.
Your mission :
- Establish the Trading Operations function: design and implement SOPs, controls, and KPIs; configure CTRM workflows; drive continuous improvement
- Execute end-to-end grain shipments (purchase, sale, logistics, storage) across EMEA with charterers, shipowners, surveyors, terminals, and agents
- Draft, review, and administer GAFTA contracts and confirmations; ensure compliance with Incoterms® 2020, quality specs, and legal requirements
- Coordinate trade-finance workflows (e.g., L/Cs under UCP 600, collections, credit insurance) and ensure timely, discrepancy-free document presentation
- Oversee documentation (B/L, invoices, certificates, phyto, insurance) and regulatory/banking submissions
- Monitor costs, provisions, and inventory; ensure accurate system updates and reporting
- Train and mentor junior trading operators; act as a key point of contact for banks, insurers, and external service providers
Your profile :
- Minimum 10 years of experience in grains trading operations
- Proven knowledge of GAFTA contracts and international execution standards
- Fluent in French and English; additional languages are an asset
- Demonstrated EMEA geographical exposure
- Entrepreneurial mindset with the drive to build capabilities from the ground up and coach others
- Strong organisational, analytical, and problem-solving skills; confident communicator with internal and external stakeholders
Ampersand World – Connecting experts in trading, logistics
Important Note: We take great care in reviewing every application and, on average, respond within three weeks. However, if your background does not fully match the experience required or if you are transitioning into a new field, please note that due to the high volume of applications, we may not be able to respond individually.
If you are considering a career change, we invite you to explore our Career Booster program, designed to support successful professional transitions : https://www.ampersand-world.com/careerbooster/
And if you have not yet been contacted by one of our consultants but wish to introduce yourself, our Premium service is available for talents who would like a direct exchange with us : https://ampersand-world.com/premium/
About your application
- When you apply to Ampersand World, your data is processed with complete confidentiality.
- No application file (CV, personal information, etc.) is shared with our clients without your prior consent. We will always contact you first.
- For any questions about our selection process, please check our Q&A.
- If you wish to track your application in real time, communicate with the consultants handling your application, or obtain more details, become Premium Member.
- Ampersand World is the first independent firm and a leading expert in commodities recruitment for over 15 years.



