LNG Trade Specialist

The job role of a LNG Originator involves multifaceted responsibilities in the field of LNG trading and operations. A key aspect of this position is to develop an in-depth understanding of Osaka Gas's LNG value chain, encompassing aspects such as LNG portfolio, fleet, receiving terminals, and downstream energy demand. This knowledge base serves as the foundation for formulating and implementing optimal trading strategies in collaboration with colleagues from HQ/OGEST.

A primary function of the LNG Originator is to identify new trading opportunities, calculate their economic viability, negotiate commercial terms with counterparties, and review contracts and agreements. Effective cooperation with various stakeholders, including operation members, middle/back office teams, shipping personnel, technical experts, and other related groups within HQ/OGEST is also crucial. The individual must possess strong analytical skills to follow the global LNG market closely and provide accurate, timely information to internal and external stakeholders, including those in HQ Japan.

Establishing and maintaining business relationships with counterparts, such as end-users, producers, traders, and key players, is another vital responsibility of the LNG Originator. Developing a profound understanding of potential customers' needs and providing solutions that surpass their expectations is essential. Additionally, the successful candidate will lead a team by leveraging available resources, including management support, to facilitate effective negotiations at all levels.

Cargo Operations Support

The LNG Originator provides critical support to the LNG Cargo operations team by fulfilling cargo operational requirements outlined in deal contracts. This entails preparing documentary instructions, ensuring timely and accurate nominations, and appointing independent surveyors. The individual must effectively liaise and coordinate with internal stakeholders, including traders, middle/back-office personnel, shipping teams, technical experts, and others within OG EST, OGHQ, and international offices.

General operation and management of LNG vessels owned or chartered by the OG group is also a significant responsibility. Specifically, the LNG Originator generates and issues Voyage Orders (including load and discharge instructions), appoints port agents, identifies opportunities for optimal bunker procurement, and enters trade details into the ETRM system. The individual must check calculations related to trades and assist in making claims when necessary. Moreover, they create a checklist of cargo operations and record trading activities.

Documentation Support

The LNG Originator offers valuable support to commercial activities, including reviewing MSPAs, CMs, KYC, and SBLC, as well as participating in internal discussions on trading strategies and performing ad-hoc duties related to trading and optimization within OG EST and OGHQ. This includes issuing Approval Documents (Ringi in Japanese) for LNG and derivative trading activities and others in Japanese.

To achieve these goals, the LNG Originator collaborates with Sales departments in OG EST and OGHQ to understand transactions and documents necessary information in Ringi. They consult with Legal departments in OGHQ to ensure proper documentation is issued. Additionally, the individual supports the development of yearly plans for OG EST, including creating presentation materials and issuing formal documents. Other tasks assigned by line managers are also part of the LNG Originator's responsibilities.

Knowledge & Experience

• A minimum bachelor's degree is required.
• A minimum of 5 years of experience in the LNG/energy industry, specifically in LNG Cargo Operations, is necessary, along with good connections/networks with market participants.
• The ideal candidate must be proficient and fluent in both English and business Japanese (JLPT N1 or equivalent) to read, translate, and discuss Japanese laws and legal-related documents in Japanese with OGHQ.
• Proficiency in Korean to read, translate, and discuss with Korean counterparts is also desired.
• Experience in analyzing overall trading economics and having a strong understanding of their impact on the overall LNG value chain is essential.
• Execution of LNG contracts and a deep understanding of evaluating optionality/flexibility of contract terms are also required.
• Familiarity with using ETRM systems is necessary.
• The ability to manage and organize large amounts of data is crucial.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office is expected.
• Good communication skills and experience collaborating/partnering with regional counterparts, including Japan, EU, USA, are highly valued.