Freedom to Transform: Exploring Traders' Journeys at Olam Agri
Curious about life as a trader at Olam Agri?
In this blog, Fahad Vaipel, Vice President of Prop Trading for Grains in Switzerland, shares his journey from the Future Trader Programme to leading critical trading operations. Fahad offers valuable insights into the benefits of the programme, advice for future candidates, and the lessons learned from rotations across global markets. Read on to discover what fuels his passion for trading and keeps him at Olam Agri.
Why did you choose the Future Trader Programme?
I was keen to pursue a career in Trading and Financial Markets, and Olam Agri was one of the companies offering this sort of opportunity. As a major financial hub with numerous growth and learning opportunities in the trading sector, Singapore was a very appealing location. In addition, the comprehensive nature of the programme and the positive reputation of the Company made it even more attractive.
What were the benefits of taking part in this programme?
The initial classroom training conducted by senior leaders and traders provided a comprehensive overview of how the Company operates, our market perspectives, and trading strategies. This foundational knowledge was crucial in understanding the broader context of the trading industry.
The job rotations offered valuable exposure to different aspects of the business, including how the Company approaches new investments and the day-to-day operations of a trading desk. These rotations were instrumental in gaining practical experience and understanding the diverse roles within Olam Agri.
How important was your training to your current role?
During my rotations, I was part of the grains business. I worked in Ghana's wheat milling business preparing a marketing plan for flour products, and in Australia's wheat trading business. Both roles provided a good overview of how Olam Agri approaches new investments and how a trading desk operates.
I also worked at the sugar trading desk and in the Risk Management team before rejoining the grains team. These experiences have significantly contributed to my learning and career development. The diversity of roles and responsibilities I undertook as a trainee equipped me with a clear understanding of the business and the skills necessary to excel in my current role.
The diverse roles and responsibilities I undertook during this programme equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of the business and the skills necessary to excel in my current role.
Fahad Vaipel,
Vice President, Prop Trading, Grains, Switzerland
What keeps you at Olam Agri?
I’m passionate about commodity trading, and Olam Agri provides excellent exposure to this. The Company offers a supportive environment for continuous learning and professional growth, and is committed to innovation and employee development, which makes it an ideal place for someone passionate about trading to build a successful career.
What advice would you give to 2025 candidates for the application process?
Be open-minded during the rotations, each role offers a unique learning opportunity, and being flexible will help you gain a broader understanding of the business. Seek guidance on career growth opportunities from mentors and senior colleagues, this will help you navigate your career path more effectively and make informed decisions about future roles within the Company.
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