SSY Trainee Scheme

Shape your future
with SSY

SSY boasts a proud legacy which goes back for more than 145 years. In that time, some of the biggest names in ship broking have worked for the firm. Indeed, it's fair to say that SSY has helped shape the ship broking industry that we know today. 

Through our dedicated Trainee Scheme, successful applicants get the opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced names in shipping over a 12-month period. In addition to expert divisional training, we will also ensure the trainees are educated in the principles of shipping, as well as take part in networking opportunities and a series of port visits and vessels trips.

Applications for the September 2026 enrolment are now closed. 

“Shipbroking is a dynamic and fast-paced environment. By being trained on the desk and in the classroom over a 12-month period, we aim to attract exceptional young talent into our organisation. Our ultimate ambition is to transform our trainees into the next SSY shipbroking superstars.”

Jonathan Bond
Associate Partner and Head of Period, Dry Cargo, SSY

Play film

“The whole structure of the SSY Trainee Scheme has been fantastic. You are supported from the very beginning yet trusted to develop your own working style. This is a team environment and you can see that your other colleagues genuinely want you to succeed. There are of course expectations and challenges but there is also trust, respect and belief that you are going to do well.”

Felicity Watson
Trainee Broker, Dry Cargo 

“Working with clients from the outset to understand their preferences and match them with the right cargo or vessel has been the best part of the SSY Trainee Scheme for me.  Coming from a non-shipping background, it initially felt like I was starting from scratch, but hard work and team support has helped get me up to speed quickly.”

George Perkins
Trainee Broker, Dry Cargo

“I have learnt so much already. I have developed market knowledge and commercial awareness, understanding what drives vessel values and how global trends can influence pricing. I've gained insight into how a deal happens from start to finish within Sale and Purchase and how brokers add value.”

Ella Dudley
Trainee Broker, Sale & Purchase

“Having the opportunity to sit on both the Dry Cargo and Derivatives desks has been invaluable. Working closely with each team and gaining an understanding of both markets has given me a strong foundation and insight into the nuances of the industry.”

Max Hill
Trainee Broker, Futures

“The best part of my time in the SSY Trainee Scheme so far has been the incredible team I joined, who made me feel welcome and have encouraged me since day one. Being able to hold conversations with clients about various ships, the market and even engaging in negotiations with them so early on has made the transition into the role both exciting and incredibly rewarding.”

Maria Falanga
Trainee Broker, Dry Cargo

Who we are

SSY, where
Experience Matters

Established in 1880 by Ernest Simpson, Lewis Spence and Captain William Young. Today, SSY has grown to become one of the biggest and most trusted names in shipbroking, operating around the world via its 28 local offices.  

About us

Our values

  • Trust

    Trust is fundamental to SSY. Without it, we wouldn't exist.

  • Independence

    Independence is what defines SSY, in business and in spirit.

  • Expertise

    Expertise is what fuels SSY, it’s why we have continued to shape and influence the shipbroking industry for more than a century.