Job Summary
The Chartering Manager will be responsible for leading and executing the company’s dry bulk commercial operations within an asset-light operating model.
The role focuses on managing chartered-in tonnage against cargo commitments, optimizing freight spreads, and driving voyage profitability.
The position requires full ownership of freight trading execution, charterparty negotiations, market positioning, and voyage P&L performance. The Chartering Manager will operate in a commercially dynamic environment, balancing cargo exposure, vessel cover, and market volatility to generate sustainable margins.
This is a pure operator role, with emphasis on freight optimization rather than asset ownership.
Key Responsibilities
Commercial & Freight Trading Execution
Develop and manage a balanced portfolio of cargo contracts (COAs, spot cargoes) and chartered-in tonnage.
Optimize freight spreads between cargo revenue and vessel hire.
Execute time charter, voyage charter, and COA fixtures.
Position vessels strategically based on forward market expectations.
Actively manage market exposure (spot vs period exposure strategy).
Monitor Baltic indices and route economics to guide commercial decisions.
Charterparty Negotiation & Contract Management
Lead negotiations with owners, charterers, brokers, and operators.
Structure charterparty terms aligned with risk management strategy.
Review and negotiate CP clauses including laytime, demurrage, bunker clauses, and performance warranties.
Ensure commercially robust fixtures with optimized terms and optionality.
Voyage P&L Ownership
Prepare detailed voyage estimates and sensitivity analysis.
Monitor actual voyage performance versus estimates.
Manage hire, freight, demurrage, dispatch, and claims.
Identify and implement cost optimization strategies.
Report voyage profitability and variance analysis to management.
Market Intelligence & Strategy
Maintain real-time awareness of freight markets across Handy, Supramax, and Panamax segments.
Develop freight forecasts and commercial positioning recommendations.
Provide structured reporting to senior management and the Board.
Identify arbitrage opportunities across regions and vessel sizes.
Operational & Cross-Functional Coordination
Ensure seamless communication between post-fixture and the account teams.
Coordinate with operations to maximize tradable days and minimize idle time.
Work closely with technical managers (where applicable) to optimize vessel performance and off-hire management.
Support bunker procurement strategy in coordination with operations.
Business Development & Network Building
Expand relationships with cargo interests, traders, brokers, and shipowners.
Develop new cargo streams and tonnage sourcing channels.
Enhance the company’s commercial profile within the dry bulk market.
Risk Management & Claims
Manage exposure related to freight volatility and operational risks.
Correspond with P&I Clubs and legal advisors on claims when required.
Support arbitration processes when necessary.
Required Competencies
Strong freight trading mindset with commercial discipline.
Proven ability to generate freight margin in volatile markets.
Deep understanding of dry bulk chartering structures (TC, VC, COA).
Advanced analytical skills for voyage economics and market forecasting.
Strong negotiation capability across complex CP clauses.
Resilient and performance-driven in high-pressure environments.
Strategic thinker with strong numerical and commercial acumen.
Job Requirements
Minimum 5 years’ experience in dry bulk chartering within an operator environment.
Proven track record in managing chartered-in tonnage and cargo books.
Experience in Handy/Supramax markets preferred.
Strong network of brokers, owners, and charterers.
Proficiency in IMOS (VIP preferred) and voyage accounting systems.
Excellent English communication skills (written and verbal).
University degree in Maritime Studies, Shipping, Business, or related discipline.
