Freight Trader

IMI is seeking an experienced Freight Trader to join our Chartering team in Delray Beach, Florida.

This role will be responsible for performing and supervising vessel fixtures and supporting post-fixture activities for bulk vessels chartered by IMI. The Freight Trader will maintain up-to-date visibility of chartered vessels, stay closely connected to freight market activity, and work with brokers, owners, traders, and internal teams to support efficient and profitable movement of dry bulk commodities.

The ideal candidate brings strong knowledge of the dry bulk freight market, established relationships within the shipping industry, and the ability to analyze market conditions, negotiate effectively, and execute chartering strategies in a fast-paced global environment.

• Identify and secure suitable vessels for the global transportation of dry bulk commodities, including cement, clinker, gypsum, coal, petcoke, iron ore, and other raw materials.
• Assess the feasibility and profitability of time-chartering vessels and develop appropriate charter management plans when warranted.
• Perform detailed freight market analysis to support competitive pricing and optimize the movement of dry bulk goods.
• Maintain regular contact with shipowners, operators, and brokers to monitor vessel availability, market positions, freight rates, trends, and opportunities.
• Negotiate charter parties with owners, operators, and brokers.
• Prepare complete voyage plans and estimates.
• Work closely with IMI’s Trading and Operations teams to support efficient execution throughout the trading and chartering process.
• Provide charter-party and fixture details to post-fixture teams and support related activities as needed.
• Maintain accurate records and visibility of vessels chartered by the company.
• Report fixture results and relevant freight market information to Traders and management.
• Measure and report the performance of third-party service providers.
• Develop, maintain, and improve chartering procedures and operating practices.
• Support the continued development of a strong safety culture.
• Build and maintain relationships with key industry stakeholders to strengthen IMI’s presence in the market.
• Contribute to key business strategy and ongoing business planning.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Maritime Management or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in the shipping industry working as a shipbroker, charterer, or shipowner.
• Experience brokering and/or chartering dry bulk vessels for raw materials such as cement, clinker, gypsum, coal, petcoke, iron ore, or similar commodities.
• Strong knowledge of dry freight markets, including market fundamentals and dry freight pricing structures.
• Ability to create, maintain, and use models to evaluate and structure physical and financial freight trades.
• Strong existing knowledge of and relationships with shipowners and brokers.
• Strong negotiation skills with the ability to achieve competitive market outcomes.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and relationship-building skills.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and perform in a demanding, fast-paced environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to use initiative and sound judgment.
• Collaborative team player who can work across functions while meeting established deadlines.
• Motivated to contribute to and grow with the business.
• Ability and willingness to travel as required.