In Part One of our miniseries on Asset-Backed Trading, Savvas Manouson and Niels Henrik Lindegaard join join our host, Paul Chapman, to discuss why commodity producers, refiners and wholesalers are developing value-chain optimisation through trading and the basic building blocks.
What are the key drivers behind this global trend? What are the key decision points around people, platform and operating model? What approaches and resources best ensure success?
Savvas Manousos spent 25 years with bp before developing global Asset-Backed Trading platforms at Reliance, Maersk and CEPSA. Savvas is now an Enco Insight Partner at HC Group’s sister company Enco Insights, providing independent, peer-to-peer, advisory to organizations embarking on this journey.
Niels Henrik Lindegaard spent 40 years with Maersk and spent a decade leading their trading transformation through Maersk Oil Trading.
Key Talent Takeaways
Developing High-Performing Asset-Backed Trading Teams Requires Long-Term Talent Investment
Building an asset-backed trading team requires long-term talent investment. Companies need professionals with trading and operational expertise, adapting to market shifts and technology. Leadership must commit to continuous development to stay competitive.
Optimisation-Focused Traders Are More Valuable Than Pure Speculative Traders
Optimisation-focused traders add more value than speculative ones. In energy trading, success depends on managing supply chains, risks, and arbitrage, not just market bets. Hiring and training traders with a strategic, asset-backed mindset ensure long-term gains.
Leadership and Organisational Structure Must Align Talent Across Trading and Operations
Leadership must align trading and operations by breaking silos. Compensation, KPIs, and collaboration must maximise corporate value, not just desk P&L. Without integration, inefficiencies and internal talent friction can limit the effectiveness of asset-backed trading.
Digital and Analytical Skills Are Key Competitive Advantages for Commodity Trading Talent
Commodity traders now need digital and analytical skills. AI, real-time risk tools, and big data analytics are essential for market insights. Companies investing in digital training and tech-driven decision-making will outcompete those relying on outdated methods.
Attracting and Retaining Commodity Trading Talent Requires Clear Career Progression and Competitive Compensation
Retaining top commodity trading talent requires clear career paths and competitive pay. Firms must offer internal mobility, structured training, and aligned incentives to keep talent engaged. Without this, they risk losing key traders to better-paying, more agile competitors.
HC Group is a global search firm dedicated to the energy and commodities markets.
Explore the full HC Commodities Podcast archive