About Czarnikow (CZ)
CZ is a global supply chain solutions company with 160 years of experience in commodity trading, whose purpose is to exert a positive economic and sustainable influence in its food, beverage, and energy supply chains. CZ buys, sells, moves and de-risks commodities through a range of services including trade finance, commodities trading, analysis, freight, logistics and price risk management.
About Czarnikow (CZ)
CZ is a global supply chain solutions company with 160 years of experience in commodity trading, whose purpose is to exert a positive economic and sustainable influence in its food, beverage, and energy supply chains. CZ buys, sells, moves and de-risks commodities through a range of services including trade finance, commodities trading, analysis, freight, logistics and price risk management.
We are an entrepreneurial company, with innovation at the heart of everything we do. We are open to change, as shown through the recent expansion of our product portfolio and move into energy. Our people are our most valued asset and make the business what it is today. We hope that you will join our team.
Why work at CZ
CZ offers the chance to join a dynamic and exciting team of professionals and learn in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment.
In addition, we offer a competitive starting salary, supported by a comprehensive benefits package, which includes:
- Discretionary bonus structure
- Competitive company pension scheme
- Comprehensive medical and dental insurance
- Life assurance
- A collaborative and collegiate work environment and culture
- Tailored learning and development
- Charity fundraising and volunteering opportunities
To find out more about life and careers at CZ, visit our LinkedIn, Youtube or Glassdoor pages.
About The Role
Reporting to the Global Freight Manager - Head of Chartering, this role provides exposure to both dry and wet freight markets, with responsibility for the commercial fixing of vessels and end-to-end post-fixture execution. The Chartering Associate will help optimise freight outcomes while ensuring contractual compliance and the smooth execution of voyages from fixture through to completion.
Tasks & Responsibilities
Chartering (pre-fixture)
- Identify and evaluate cargo and vessel opportunities across relevant markets
- Negotiate charter parties with brokers, operators, and owners
- Optimise TCE through freight negotiation and cost awareness (bunkers, port costs, canal dues)
- Develop and maintain relationships with brokers, operators, and owners
- Monitor market trends (freight, commodities, tonnage lists) to support commercial strategy
Post-Fixture (Execution)
- Manage fixtures from recap to voyage completion
- Review recap emails and charter party agreements
- Coordinate closely with commercial and operations teams on voyage instructions, laycan, and cargo readiness
- Monitor vessel performance vs charter party terms (laytime, demurrage/despatch)
- Handle claims and disputes in coordination with legal and P&I where required
- Approve and track voyage P&L against initial estimates
Operations & Coordination
- Liaise with internal teams (commercial, operations, finance and compliance)
- Maintain accurate records of fixtures and contract terms
- Ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements (sanctions, insurance, vetting)
- Support invoicing, freight collection, and demurrage recovery
Changes in the business may occasionally require alterations in this job description and these will be agreed with the post holder as appropriate.
Your role is related to the management of activities that ensure product safety, authenticity, legality and quality. Please review the BRCGS objectives, policy and related requirements located on the Intranet. Applies to HR, Compliance, Trading, Marketing, Operations, and Insurance Roles.
About You
We are looking for someone with the following skillset and attributes:
Essential
- Commercial mindset with solid P&L awareness and a focus on performance.
- Ability to negotiate freight contracts and manage counterparty relationships effectively.
- High attention to detail with strong organisational and problem-solving skills.
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to coordinate internally and negotiate externally.
- Fluency in English
- Fluency in one or more additional European language is desirable and will be considered an advantage.
Qualifications & Experience
- Candidates should demonstrate either:
- A minimum of one year's relevant experience in shipping, maritime, chartering, operations, logistics, commodity trading, or a related industry;
- Having gained a strong understanding of charter party terms (GENCON, Sugar 99, Czarvoy, etc.).
- Good knowledge of demurrage, laytime calculations, and claims handling.
Or
- A degree in Shipping, Maritime Studies, Business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or another relevant discipline.
Performance Metrics (KPIs)
- Time Charter Equivalent (TCE) performance versus market benchmarks.
- Fixture-to-execution efficiency, with minimal disputes and rework.
- Demurrage recovery rate.
- Voyage P&L accuracy versus estimate.
- Quality of counterparties and development of strategic relationships.
- Look to develop freight risk skills through the use of Forward Freight Agreements (FFAs) and Fuel hedging products.
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CHARTERING ASSOCIATE employer: CZ
Czarnikow (CZ) is an exceptional employer that fosters a dynamic and collaborative work culture, where innovation and sustainability are at the forefront of our mission. With a comprehensive benefits package, including competitive salaries, tailored learning opportunities, and a commitment to employee growth, we empower our team members to thrive in their careers while making a positive impact on global supply chains. Join us in a fast-paced environment that values your contributions and encourages meaningful engagement with major food and beverage companies.
