At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate metal sales operations, manage contracts, and analyse data for process improvements.
- Company: Join a leading global copper producer with a focus on safety and innovation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonuses, flexible working, and opportunities for growth.
- Other info: Fast-paced environment with high-value transactions and international collaboration.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team driving efficiency in the mining industry.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field; experience in logistics or data analysis preferred.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
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. It 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 and external counterparties and ensuring the operational complexities of the trade flow are managed effectively.
Key Responsibilities
- Contract Administration / Documentation
- Coordinate sales contracts for metal products
- Verify counterparty documentation (invoices, certificates, assay reports, transport documents, etc.)
- Prepare and manage trade documentation such as bills of lading, certificates of origin, inspection reports
- Prepare and present documents to banks against Letters of Credit
- Ensure compliance with international trade regulations, company policies, and internal controls
- Logistics
- Monitor and reconcile inventory movements, shipment schedules, and delivery timelines
- Arrange for inspection, sampling, assaying, and quality verification of products
- Organise and coordinate end‑to‑end shipments for physical metal trades by vessel, truck, and rail
- Track actions and update data in internal systems
- Manage ad‑hoc issues such as delays, missing documents, or delivery discrepancies
- Trade Finance
- Handle invoicing and maintain payment terms (Holding Certificates, CAD, Letters of Credit, Bank collections, Open Account, etc.)
- Monitor exposure
- Relationship Management
- Build and maintain relationships with multiple counterparties internationally (suppliers, receivers, service providers)
- Liaise with counterparties, freight providers and inspection companies to ensure timely and accurate execution
- Work closely with colleagues across FQM corporate offices globally and African mining operations
- System Administration, Reporting & Performance Monitoring
- Maintain Excel modelling and accurate records in FQM ERP (Mineman)
- Prepare reports, summarise key findings and recommendations regarding metal operations
- Monitor key performance indicators related to metal operations, trading activities and sales contracts and provide 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
- Undergraduate or Bachelor’s degree in mathematics, engineering, geology, business/supply chain, economics or a related field
- Post‑graduate or Master’s degree desirable
Experience & Technical Skills Required
- Understanding of 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
- Strong data analytics capabilities and proficiency with Excel
- Knowledge of Bloomberg and other industry data packages preferable; prior experience using trading platforms and ERP systems preferable; knowledge of Mineman 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 with a solution‑driven mindset
- Reliable, collaborative and highly adaptable to a dynamic, high‑pressure, fast‑paced environment
- Ability to manage multiple concurrent trades simultaneously, maintaining accuracy and focus across competing priorities
- Ability to work autonomously and with limited direction; comfortable with ambiguity and 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 and 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, emails, phone calls and communication channels
- High value: high‑value and 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
- Willingness to work and travel across FQM’s operations and locations worldwide
- Fluency in English required; proficiency in other languages highly regarded
- Willingness to perform work scope outside of the core responsibilities of the role
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 and financial incentives (discretionary bonuses & long‑term share plan)
- Attractive benefits package and leave options aligned with local market best practice
- Performance‑over‑presence culture & flexible working environment as per business requirements
Analyst, Trading Operations employer: FQM Zambia
At FQM, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and challenging work environment where safety is our top priority. As part of our Trading Operations team in Zambia, you will have the opportunity to develop your career within one of the world's leading copper producers, benefiting from competitive compensation, performance-based incentives, and a culture that values flexibility and employee growth. Join us to be part of a collaborative team that drives innovation and operational excellence in the mining industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Analyst, Trading Operations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its operations. Understand their trading processes and be ready to discuss how your skills can help streamline their metal sales operations.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your analytical skills! Bring examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes in past roles. This will resonate well with hiring managers looking for someone detail-oriented.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at FQM.
We think you need these skills to ace Analyst, Trading Operations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Analyst, Trading Operations role. Highlight relevant experience in sales administration, data analytics, and logistics management. We want to see how your background aligns with our needs!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about the mining industry and how your skills can contribute to our trading operations. Keep it concise but impactful!
Show Off Your Data Skills:Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, make sure to showcase your proficiency with Excel and any other relevant tools. We love seeing candidates who can turn numbers into insights that drive decisions!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at FQM Zambia
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of base metals markets and international logistics. Familiarise yourself with key terms like Incoterms and trade documentation, as these will likely come up during the interview.
✨Show Off Your Data Skills
Since this role involves a lot of data analysis, be prepared to discuss your experience with Excel and any relevant data analytics tools. Bring examples of how you've used data to drive decisions or improve processes in past roles.
✨Demonstrate Your Problem-Solving Mindset
The company values a solution-driven approach, so think of specific instances where you've tackled challenges or improved efficiency. Be ready to share these stories to showcase your proactive attitude.
✨Build Rapport
This role requires strong relationship management skills, so practice your interpersonal communication. Be friendly and engaging during the interview, and show that you can collaborate effectively with diverse teams and stakeholders.