Grains trader

Benefits to primary industries

Grain is bought and sold between companies and countries around the world. My job is to ensure the flow of grain from producer to consumer continues. The price paid in international grain trades is affected by the amount of grain available (supply) and the amount of grain needed (demand). It can also be affected by weather, politics and currencies.

Where do you live?

I live in a capital city.

What are some important skills?

I need to be able to understand the grain trading reports that we get each day. These reports tell us what is happening in international markets and the trends in grain trading. It is also helpful to understand and follow the things that affect supply and demand like weather and international politics.

What is your favourite part of your job?

I have always enjoyed maths, which I use everyday in my job so that I can understand the trends in international trading. It’s good to be working at something I am good at, and I really enjoy looking at the trends over the years and seeing how things change through history.

What are the main tools of the trade?

The internet is key to my job as I am constantly in contact with people from around the world.

What training have you had?

I completed a Bachelor of Agriculture majoring in Agricultural Economics. My favourite subject was Agricultural and Resource Economics. I decided to do my industry placement here, and loved it so much I applied for a graduate position with the company.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Hopefully I will still be doing this job and doing it well!

Trip Preperation. Questions to ask :)

Here are some potential questions learners could ask farmers based on the subtopics:

  • Important Skills:
    1. What skills do you think are most critical for success as a Grain Trader?
    2. Can you give an example of a time when you had to use a particular skill to overcome a challenge?
    3. How do you stay proficient in skills like navigation, communication, and emergency procedures?
  • Favourite Part of the Job:
    1. What do you enjoy most about being a Grain Trader?
    2. Can you describe a particularly memorable season or experience?
    3. What makes each trade unique and exciting for you?
  • Main Tools of the Trade:
    1. What technology or equipment do you rely on most in your daily work?
    2. How do you stay up-to-date with the latest advancements in processing technology and systems?
  • Training:
    1. Can you walk us through your training process to become a trader?
    2. What kind of ongoing training or professional development do you participate in?
    3. How do you think your training has prepared you for the challenges of being a grain trader?
  • Future Career Goals:
    1. What are your long-term career goals, and how do you see yourself progressing in the industry?
    2. What advice would you give to someone who wants to pursue a career in trading?