Trade Finance Specialist at H. Pierson Associates

Job Summary: 

• Our client, a prominent entity in the Oil & Gas and Energy Commodity Trading sectors, is seeking a seasoned and meticulous Trade Finance Specialist. The role emphasizes leveraging AI-driven tools to improve efficiency, risk assessment, and compliance. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in energy sector trade finance, a robust understanding of cross-border trading, deal structuring, and trade instruments, and proficiency in utilizing AI technologies to streamline processes and support strategic decision-making. A comprehensive grasp of international trade, banking instruments, and oil & gas logistics is essential. 

Key Responsibilities: 

• Originate and execute profitable oil and gas trading deals across West Africa, including spot and term contracts. 
• Utilize AI algorithms to analyze vast datasets, including market trends and financial indicators, to assess counterparty creditworthiness and predict potential risks. 
• Implement AI-driven systems to monitor transactions in real-time, identifying anomalies and ensuring adherence to anti-money laundering (AML) and know-your-customer (KYC) regulations. 
• Structure, coordinate, and manage trade finance transactions including Letters of Credit (LCs), Standby LCs, Bank Guarantees, Bills for Collection, and Documentary Credits. 
• Familiarity with AI tools that evaluate the creditworthiness of trading partners and detect fraudulent activities enhances risk management strategies. 
• Staying updated with evolving AI technologies and their applications in trade finance ensures the adoption of best practices and maintains a competitive edge in the industry. 
• Collaborate with traders and operations teams to analyze financing needs, recommend optimal structures, and secure competitive financing solutions. 
• Manage relationships with local and international banks, DFIs, and trade finance providers to support trading deals. 
• Monitor and manage the execution and settlement of oil & gas trades in compliance with internal policies and international regulations. 
• Review and negotiate trade finance documentation (e.g., LC terms, facility agreements, performance bonds). 
• Ensure timely documentation and reporting of trade finance transactions for both internal stakeholders and external auditors. 
• Support risk mitigation efforts by assessing creditworthiness of counterparties and recommending insurance or hedging solutions. 
• Stay updated on trade finance trends, FX exposure management, and regional banking practices. 
• Work closely with legal and compliance teams to ensure alignment with sanctions laws, KYC/AML requirements, and industry standards. 

Key Requirements 

• Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Accounting, Economics, or related field. A Master’s degree or professional certifications (CITF, CDCS, CFA, or ACCA) is an added advantage. 
• 6–10 years of experience in Trade Finance within the Oil & Gas sector or commodity trading environment. 
• Proven expertise in structuring trade deals involving oil products such as PMS, AGO, DPK, LPG, and crude oil. 
• Deep understanding of international trade regulations, UCP 600, Incoterms, SWIFT messaging, and trade documentation. 
• Strong knowledge of structured and supply chain finance, credit risk, and treasury operations. 
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills across banks, clients, vendors, and internal teams. 
• Familiarity with cross-border trade flows, logistics documentation (BLs, invoices, inspection reports), and customs processes. 
• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle), and trade finance platforms. 
• Fluency in English required; French is a plus for Francophone West African transactions