At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage sourcing operations and sales contracts for cocoa and other commodities.
- Company: Join SFI Agri Commodities, a dynamic player in the global cocoa market.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible hybrid work, private medical insurance, and 25 days annual leave.
- Why this job: Shape our workplace culture while driving sustainability in the agricultural sector.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in relevant fields; experience in commodity trading and supply chain management required.
- Other info: Be part of a growing company with opportunities to influence its future.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Job Description
At SFI Agri Commodities, we are a dynamic agricultural commodities trading company with a strong focus on the global cocoa market. Through leveraging the deep industry expertise of our parent company Sunbeth Global Concepts; we have quickly emerged as a trusted player in the sourcing and export of high-quality agro commodities, including cocoa beans, cashew nuts, sesame seeds, and soya beans.
Role Overview
Contract: Full time
Location: London, Hybrid
Reporting: Head of Commodities Trading
SFI Agri is seeking a Responsible Sourcing Manager to manage its sourcing operations and sales contracts, based in London. The role requires a highly experienced commodity professional with an in-depth understanding of the cocoa origin operations, procurement and marketing. The role involves advising and supporting our origin companies and procurement operations on responsible sourcing and sustainable program contract management.
The role assists the trader in managing the sourcing of cocoa and other commodities for key clients from Sunbeth Global Concept Limited, as well as from other exporters / traders, whilst managing current and developing new client relationships. The successful candidate is expected to leverage an existing cocoa and chocolate client network, as well as to introduce new clients.
The successful candidate will assist the trader to develop and manage strategic partnerships with clients, achieving key performance metrics, and keeping abreast of market and sustainability trends.
Your key responsibilities will include:
Sales Support
- Support the trading function in developing sales and purchase forecast in line with sustainability goals and EUDR and/or similar policies
- Physical position monitoring
- Sales and purchase contract oversight
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with stakeholders, including suppliers, clients, brokers and regulators
- Participate in, and contribute to, new business development strategy and planning
- Collaborate on Sunbeth SFI Agri’s sustainable and responsible procurement programs and credentials
- Sourcing
- Communicate and manage the sourcing strategy with Sunbeth in origins for cocoa and other products
- Manage the supplier development process
- Ensure compliance with certification requirements and sustainability commitments
- Design and implement full supply chain traceability system
- Monitor crop development in key origins and S&D views
- Support the development of longer-term sourcing strategies with key external suppliers
- New Origin and Commodity Development
- Conduct market analysis and forecasting to identify new trading opportunities in existing and new origins and commodities
- Support and coach the set-up of new origins operations with procurement / export / marketing expertise
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of global market developments, geopolitical events, and supply-demand dynamics
We’re looking for someone with:
Education
- Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, or a related field
- Advanced degree (e.g., MBA or MSc) in a relevant discipline is preferred
Knowledge
- Comprehensive understanding of global commodities markets, including trading processes, pricing mechanisms, and supply chain dynamics
- Comprehensive understanding of supply chain models for smallholder agricultural crops in Africa
- Familiarity with commodity logistics and contract management
- Comprehensive understanding of smallholder cocoa sustainability programming
Experience
- Strong track record and in-depth experience in a physical commodity trading environment, with exposure to trade, sourcing and sustainability.
- Proven ability and experience in supply chain management with a cocoa/chocolate company
Competencies
- Technical Competencies
- Analytical mindset
- Data management abilities
- Innovation focused
Behavioural Competencies
- High ethical standards and commitment to regulatory compliance
- Results-driven with a proactive and entrepreneurial mindset
- Adaptability to changing market conditions
- Attention to detail and a disciplined approach to managing client and supplier relationships
Benefits and Perks of working for SFI Agri Commodities
As a fairly new company, we’re still in the early stages of building out our perks and benefits, which makes this an exciting time to join us. You’ll have the opportunity to help shape our workplace culture and the kind of employee experience we create as we grow.
That said, here’s what we currently offer:
- Flexible, hybrid working environment
- Private medical insurance
- 25 days annual leave
- Pension
- Enhanced parental leave
Equal Employment Opportunity
We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all our employees.
Responsible Sourcing Manager employer: SFI Agri Commodities
Contact Detail:
SFI Agri Commodities Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Responsible Sourcing Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network within the cocoa and agricultural commodities industry. Attend relevant trade shows, conferences, and seminars to meet potential clients and partners. Building relationships in this sector can give you an edge when applying for the Responsible Sourcing Manager position.
✨Tip Number 2
Stay updated on sustainability trends and regulations affecting the cocoa market. Familiarise yourself with policies like the EUDR, as understanding these will be crucial in your role. This knowledge can help you stand out during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Demonstrate your analytical skills by preparing insights on current market dynamics and supply-demand trends in the cocoa industry. Being able to discuss these topics confidently can showcase your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight any previous experience you have in managing supplier relationships or developing sourcing strategies. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've successfully navigated challenges in the commodity trading space, as this will resonate well with the hiring team.
We think you need these skills to ace Responsible Sourcing Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in commodity trading, sourcing operations, and sustainability. Use specific examples that demonstrate your understanding of the cocoa market and your ability to manage supplier relationships.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for responsible sourcing and sustainability in agriculture. Mention how your background aligns with SFI Agri Commodities' goals and how you can contribute to their success in the cocoa market.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Emphasise your analytical mindset, data management abilities, and experience in supply chain management. Make sure to mention any familiarity with certification requirements and sustainability commitments, as these are crucial for the role.
Showcase Your Network: If you have an existing network within the cocoa and chocolate industry, be sure to mention it. Highlighting your connections can demonstrate your potential to develop new client relationships and support business development strategies.
How to prepare for a job interview at SFI Agri Commodities
✨Showcase Your Industry Knowledge
Make sure to demonstrate your understanding of the cocoa market and global commodities trading. Be prepared to discuss recent trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry, as this will show your passion and expertise.
✨Highlight Your Experience with Sustainability
Since the role focuses on responsible sourcing and sustainability, be ready to share specific examples of how you've implemented sustainable practices in previous roles. This could include managing supply chains or working with smallholder farmers.
✨Prepare for Scenario-Based Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and ability to manage relationships with suppliers and clients. Think of scenarios where you successfully navigated challenges in sourcing or contract management.
✨Demonstrate Your Networking Skills
The role requires leveraging existing client networks and developing new relationships. Be prepared to discuss how you've built and maintained professional relationships in the past, particularly within the cocoa and chocolate sectors.