Employee Profile
Name: Kelvin S.
Title: Iron Ore Trader
Career Area:
Trading
Location: Shanghai, China
Education: Master of Economics, Nanjing University of Aeronautics and Astronautics
“Be prepared and seize the opportunity to reach out. Cargill is full of opportunities.”
Why do you like working at Cargill?
I like the high-caliber people. The iron ore team is a very diverse group comprised of colleagues from nine countries with varying backgrounds and unique skill sets. The team is eager to cooperate with and challenge one other, in pursuit of our common goal. For me, working with such a team and learning different skills along the way is quite enjoyable.
Describe your work responsibilities and the importance of your role.
I am in charge of iron ore port stock trading in China. Accordingly, I work closely with the iron ore sales team and desk book manager. I am responsible for managing our position of port stocks, driving the decision-making regarding iron ore imports, purchasing and selling port stocks, and ensuring the smooth flow of quality insights to the trading team.
Describe your day-to-day activities and the skills needed to perform well.
I monitor port market liquidity, pricing and dynamics, in order to identify and execute on opportunities. As such, I capture quality market insights from port stock market trading, report them back to our team, and coordinate with internal functions to manage port trading-related risks. Importantly, I work with the sales team to develop deep relationships with customers and provide port stocks-related solutions to meet their needs. With these responsibilities, it’s imperative to have analytical abilities, manage risk, and communicate effectively.
Describe your career path. Where did you start and how did you get to where you are today?
I joined Cargill in 2012 as a commercial management trainee in Shanghai. I spent my first 13 months in Shanghai and Singapore on rotations with different functions, including analysis, technical marketing, sales, sourcing and trade execution. After graduation from the trainee program, I joined the iron ore sourcing team and spent two years in Singapore. In 2015, I was given the opportunity to lead the newly established iron ore port stock team in China, in support of our growing iron ore business.
What do you find most rewarding about your work?
I find it rewarding to work with a diverse team in a dynamic market, while trying to capture trading opportunities and manage risk.
Why did you choose to join Cargill and what keeps you here? In other words, how has a career at Cargill helped you to thrive?
I like commodity trading, and Cargill’s trainee program offers a unique fast-track for young graduates entering the industry. Cargill offers abundant opportunities and a pleasant working environment, paired with quality training and employee empowerment.
What advice would you give someone interested in a career at Cargill like yours?
Be prepared, and seize the opportunity to reach out. Cargill is full of opportunities for those willing to seek them out.
Share an interesting tidbit about yourself such as hobbies, volunteerism, favorite foods or activities, accomplishments inside or outside of work.
I like playing football and basketball, and watching movies.