Zodiac Maritime | Sale and Purchase Assistant

The role

Position: Sale & Purchase Assistant

Contract type: Full Time

Reporting to: Head of Sale & Purchase

Location: London

Overview of role

With a diversified portfolio of over 180 commercial vessels and ongoing fleet expansion, this is an exciting opportunity to join a small, high-performing team of three responsible for delivering on vessel acquisitions, both newbuilds and second-hand tonnage and sale of vessels within the fleet.

Reporting to the Head of Sale and Purchase, you will work closely with our c-suite to support in the coordination and completion of commercially beneficial sales and purchase activities from contract negotiations through to ship delivery.

Zodiac is therefore seeking a Sale and purchase Assistant to join the team. The ideal candidate will bring strategic thinking, strong analytical abilities, and experience in the shipping industry. You should be comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment and have a proactive approach to delivering high-quality results.

Key responsibilities and primary deliverables

• Assisting in the negotiation of sales and purchases on Principals’ behalf, on their instruction.
• Assisting in the drafting / review of deal documentation, including contracts, to protect the interests of Principals.
• Assisting in the review and execution of authorised Memoranda of Agreement / contracts / all deal-related documentation.
• Report the main terms of sales and purchases to all personnel and Principals’ representative offices in Monaco.
• Ensure that arrangements and details for holding deposits are made and confirmed within the required timescales.
• Coordinate and ensure that all relevant departments, Masters, Superintendents and port agents are updated on the details relating to the physical inspection of vessels, both for sales and purchases.
• Update all relevant departments, offices and Masters on the authorised terms of sales and deliveries within the required timescales.
• Assist in the arrangement of the execution of all required delivery documents, including liaising with Principals, Classification Societies, banks etc.
• Accurately calculate final balances, including bunkers, lubricating oils and extras etc.
• Coordinate and ensure that all relevant departments, Masters, Superintendents and port agents are updated on the details relating to the physical deliveries of vessels.
• Coordinate with internal and external parties to ensure the successful organisation of closing meetings.
• Report confirmation of deliveries to all personnel, Principals’ representative offices in Monaco and other authorities as necessary.
• Assist in the registration of vessels in Principals chosen flag state.
• Assist in arranging the execution of all flag related documents, including liaising with Principals, Flag State Authorities etc.
• Assist in the coordination of flag and names changes

General

• Support the Head of S&P in the coordination and completion of commercially beneficial sale and purchase activities – from contract negotiations through to ship delivery.
• Accurately update and distribute S&P reports and reference lists within the required timescales.
• Maintain accessible, updated and well organised electronic files.
• Undertake such other duties and tasks as required to assist in the smooth running of the S&P Department.
• Participate in the S&P Department’s growth with input and ideas for development initiatives.

Skills profile

Relevant experience & education

• 2 to 4 years shipping experience in either Sale & Purchase (broker / principal), Operations or Legal would be an advantage.
• Previous experience in drafting, reviewing and negotiating S&P contracts would be an advantage.
• Demonstrated understanding of the difference in vessel types, main areas of shipbuilding, flag states, classification and commercial variables in shipping is a requirement for the role.
• Advanced knowledge and proven ability in the use of Microsoft Office applications i.e. Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills to facilitate and maintain strong relationships with all levels of the business, external legal, commercial and government entities.
• High level of analytical skills and strategic thinking ability to support decisions with sound reasoning and judgement.
• Excellent attention to detail and ability to identify and focus on relevant information.
• Ability to self-motivate and to prioritise conflicting demands against short timelines.
• Creative and lateral thinker.
• Professionalism and trustworthiness should be beyond question.
• Ability to take ownership and holds oneself accountable.
• Ability to take initiative and be proactive.
• Commitment to helping promote and maintain a safe workplace.

Due to the high level of applications, we regret that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.