Graduate Trainee - Commodity Operations & Trade Finance

We are seeking a highly motivated and analytical Graduate Trainee – Trade Finance & Commodity Operations to join our Swiss office.

This role provides hands-on exposure to the full commodity trading lifecycle, with a strong focus on trade finance execution, banking documentation, operational support, cash flow coordination, and international commodity transactions.

The successful candidate will work closely with traders, finance teams, logistics providers, banks, and counterparties across multiple jurisdictions while developing expertise in structured commodity trade finance and international operations.

Key Responsibilities

Trade Finance Operations

• Support the execution and monitoring of trade finance transactions.
• Prepare and review Letters of Credit (LCs), CAD documentation, and bank presentations.
• Coordinate documentary collections and payment processes with international banks.
• Monitor trade finance utilization and banking facility availability.
• Assist with borrowing base and working capital reporting requirements.
• Ensure timely issuance and verification of shipping and trade documentation.

Commodity Operations Support

• Support the operational execution of physical commodity contracts.
• Coordinate with logistics providers, warehouses, inspection companies, and shipping agents.
• Track shipment schedules, invoices, and supporting trade documentation.
• Maintain accurate operational records within internal systems and ERP platforms.
• Assist in resolving operational discrepancies and documentation issues.

Treasury & Cash Flow Coordination

• Support daily cash flow monitoring and liquidity planning.
• Coordinate trade-related payments with Treasury and Finance teams.
• Monitor receivables and payables linked to commodity transactions.
• Assist with bank reconciliations and cash utilization reporting.

Compliance & Risk Management

• Conduct KYC and onboarding checks for suppliers, customers, banks, and brokers.
• Support compliance with internal controls, banking requirements, and regulatory obligations.
• Assist in monitoring counterparty exposure and operational risks.
• Ensure proper documentation and audit readiness for trade finance transactions.

Reporting & Analysis

• Prepare trade profitability and operational reports.
• Support preparation of reports for banks, auditors, and management.
• Assist in analyzing financial and operational performance metrics.
• Support budgeting and forecasting processes where required.

Requirements:
Qualifications & Education

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Finance, Economics, Business Administration, International Trade, or related field.
• Previous internship exposure within commodity trading, banking, trade finance, logistics, or treasury is advantageous.
• Strong academic background with analytical capabilities.

Preferred Skills

• Strong interest in international commodity markets and trade finance.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced international environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines simultaneously.
• English fluency required; German is considered an advantage.

Benefits:
• Exposure to international commodity trading markets.
• Structured learning and development within a global trading environment.
• Opportunity to work closely with experienced traders and finance professionals.
• International career growth opportunities across TORQ global offices.
• Dynamic and entrepreneurial working environment in Switzerland’s commodity trading hub.