Group Trade Execution Manager

SOLEVO is a leading distributor of chemicals and inputs for specific industrial and agricultural segments in Africa. SOLEVO assists African farmers and Industries succeed by providing them with a full range of fertilizers, seeds, crop protection products and industrial chemicals they need with a guaranteed quality and good value. With over 75 years at the frontier of economic growth and transformation across Africa, we deliver critical raw materials and expertise to the continent’s high GDP-contributing life sciences and industrials sectors.

We are seeking an experienced and talented Trade Execution Manager to join our team based in Geneva. The ideal candidate will be responsible for managing the Trade Execution Team and driving efficiency across all trade operations. You should possess extensive experience in global trade operations, particularly in relation to the African continent, and demonstrate strong leadership and analytical capabilities.

The candidate will lead the Trade Execution Team (6 people), providing necessary management support and expertise to ensure all trade contracts are executed as planned and in full compliance with industry standards. You will drive operational efficiency, optimize business processes, and maintain a customer-centric focus for both internal and external stakeholders.

•Team Leadership: Manage and mentor the Trade Execution Team, providing guidance and expertise to ensure high performance.

•Contract Execution: Ensure trade contracts are executed according to plan across all business lines, maintaining strict compliance with industry standards.

•Operational Efficiency: Drive improvements in trade operations, focusing on reducing costs and lead times while maintaining quality.

•Process Optimization: Review and optimize business processes in coordination with internal and external stakeholders.

•Stakeholder Management: Manage third-party performance (brokers, etc.) and ensure the department maintains a customer-centric approach for both suppliers and customers.

•Logistics & Freight: Oversee bulk freight commercial activities, including bookings, freight negotiations, and contract negotiations in accordance with Traders and Procurement.

•Compliance & Documentation: Build strong alert systems for country regulations and laws; ensure all clearance and shipping documents (PO, SOCH, TC transportation) are handled accurately and timely.

•Financial Oversight: Initiate and approve POs related to additional shipment costs (insurance, inspection fees, etc.) and ensure timely invoicing.

Must-Have:

•Experience: At least 10+ years of experience in managing global trade operations, specifically with a focus on Africa.

•Leadership: Strong leadership skills with a proven ability to manage teams and drive change.

•Technical Knowledge: Deep understanding of P&L, operating performance metrics, and trade management systems implementation.

•Supply Chain Expertise: Relevant experience in logistics, transportation, and supply chain management.

•Analytical Skills: Strong ability to perform cost/benefit analysis and prepare accurate reports for upper management to drive data-driven decisions.

•Communication: Excellent communication skills for effective engagement with internal and external stakeholders.

•Education: Master’s Degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Finance, Business Administration, or a related field.

Nice-to-Have:

•Tools: Proficiency in Microsoft Office programs, with advanced skills in EXCEL.

•Negotiation: Proven ability to drive negotiations with 3rd party vendors.

•Problem Solving: Strong organizational skills and a proactive problem-solving attitude.

•A Strategic Leader: Able to lead teams through change management and complex operational challenges.

•Customer-Focused: Dedicated to satisfying the needs of both internal and external customers and suppliers in the best interest of Solevo.

•Detail-Oriented: Capable of ensuring all documentation and clearance processes meet strict deadlines (e.g., 5 days before vessel arrival).

•Analytical: Exceptional at using data and analytics to monitor KPIs and drive operational excellence.

•Join a young dynamic team who is leading the chemical distribution on the African continent.

•Enjoy a collaborative, international and agile work environment.

•Be part of a team where freedom, initiative and ‘thinking out of the box’ is key.

•Opportunity to work in a growing versatile environment.

•Competitive compensation package and comprehensive benefits package.

•Explore opportunities for professional growth and advancement.

If you’re excited about this position, we encourage you to submit your resume detailing your relevant experience and be part of our exciting journey.

If your profile matches our search, you will be contacted by our HR team for a first contact. Please be informed that we will keep your profile to contact you for future professional opportunities.