Analyst, Trading Operations

Reporting to the Lead, Trading Operations of our FQM Trading Operations – Zambian division, this role is an integral part of a specialist function that combines sales administration, data analytics, commerce, supply chain/logistics management, trade finance, and project controls. The trading operations analyst owns the full lifecycle of FQM metal sales operations from our primary African mining operations (KMP & Trident), acting as the central point of coordination between internal divisions & external counterparties and ensuring the operational complexities of the trade flow are managed effectively.

Key Responsibilities

• Contract Administration / Documentation
  • Coordination of sales contracts for metal products
  • Verifying counterparty documentation (invoices, certificates, assay reports, transport documents, etc.)
  • Preparation and management of trade documentation such as bills of lading, certificates of origin, invoices & inspection reports
  • Preparation and presentation of documents to banks against Letters of Credit
  • Ensuring compliance with international trade regulations, company policies, and internal controls
• Logistics
  • Monitoring and reconciliation of inventory movements, shipment schedules, and delivery timelines
  • Arranging for inspection, sampling, assaying, and handling of various products
  • Organising and coordinating end‑end shipments for physical metal trades by vessel, truck, rail
  • Tracking actions and updating data in internal systems
  • Managing ad‑hoc issues such as delays, missing documents, or delivery discrepancies
• Trade Finance
  • Invoicing while observing & maintaining payment terms (Holding Certificates, CAD, Letters of Credit, Bank collections, Open Account, etc.)
  • Exposure monitoring
• Relationship Management
  • Building and maintaining relationships with multiple counterparties internationally (suppliers, receivers, service providers)
  • Liaising with counterparties, freight providers, inspection companies to ensure timely and accurate execution
  • Working closely with colleagues across FQM corporate offices globally and African mining operations
• System Administration, Reporting & Performance Monitoring
  • Maintaining Excel file modelling & accurate records in FQM ERP (Mineman)
  • Preparing reports, summarizing key findings, insights, and recommendations regarding metal operations
  • Monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs) related to metal operations, trading activities, and sales contracts, providing regular updates and insights to management
• Data Analysis
  • Conduct in-depth analysis of metal production data, sales contracts, and market trends to identify opportunities for process optimisation and efficiency improvements.
• Continuous Improvement
  • Proactively identify opportunities for process improvement and innovation within metal operations, driving initiatives to enhance operational efficiency, reduce costs, and increase profitability.

Qualifications

• An undergraduate or Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, engineering, geology, business/supply chain, economics or a related field. A post graduate/ Master’s degree desirable.

Experience & Technical Skills Required

• Understanding of the base metals markets and passion for the mining industry.
• Knowledge of international logistics, Incoterms, and trade documentation.
• 1‑5 years’ experience in base metals or commodities operations/logistics.
• Background in metals/mining companies or commodity trading houses preferable, but open to other relevant sectors with transferable knowledge/experience.
• Strong data analytics capabilities & proficiency with Excel.
• Knowledge of Bloomberg and other industry data packages preferable; prior experience using trading platforms and ERP systems preferable.
• Knowledge of Mineman is an advantage.
• In lieu of experience, the company is open to applications from ambitious, high‑calibre graduates interested in pursuing a career within metal operations.

Behavioural Traits / Attributes for Success

• Ambitious, focused, detail‑oriented, and proactive individual with a solution‑driven mindset.
• Reliable, collaborative and highly adaptable to a dynamic, high‑pressure, fast‑paced operational environment.
• Ability to manage multiple concurrent trades simultaneously, maintaining accuracy and focus across competing priorities.
• Ability to work autonomously & with limited direction.
• Comfortable with ambiguity & naturally numerate.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to articulate ideas confidently and concisely.
• Ability to operate successfully in an international business and multicultural context.
• Naturally collaborative with excellent interpersonal skills, a strong team player.
• Commercial focus, ability to take initiative, and skills to solve complex business issues.

Working Conditions

• Fast paced: Intraday execution with hard deadlines.
• High‑pressure: Same‑day contract, payment, and delivery cycles.
• Multi‑channel: Simultaneous teams groups, emails, phone calls & communication channels.
• High value: High value & volume transactions require precision and fraud awareness.
• Cross‑functional: Constant interaction with various departments involved in the trading process.

Other Requirements

• Candidates must have the right to work in the applicable region without visa sponsorship.
• Mobile. Willingness to work and travel across FQM’s operations and locations worldwide.
• Fluency in English is required. Proficiency in other languages highly regarded.
• Willingness to perform work scope outside of the core responsibilities of the role.

First Quantum Benefits

• DYNAMIC, CHALLENGING, AND EXTRAORDINARY WORKING ENVIRONMENT WHERE SAFETY IS A NUMBER ONE PRIORITY.
• Opportunity to develop within a growing company that is currently one of the world's top 10 copper producers.
• Highly competitive base compensation & financial incentives (discretionary bonuses & Long‑term share plan).
• Attractive benefits package & leave options aligned with local market best practice.
• Performance over presence culture & flexible working environment as per business requirements.

Diversity & Inclusion

At FQM, while at the beginning of our D&I journey, we are committed to embedding the principles of diversity and inclusion into our culture, company and practices with the aim of ensuring an environment of equity irrespective of race, gender, age, religion, identity or experience.