Commercial Manager UAE - Perishables

Trades Workforce Solutions; Dubai; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading freight forwarding company is seeking a Commercial Manager / Branch Manager to establish their new branch in Dubai. The ideal candidate will have 2+ years in the UAE freight forwarding industry, particularly with perishable cargo. Responsibilities include managing branch operations, developing client relationships, and strategic planning. Strong negotiation and leadership skills are necessary to drive business growth and ensure compliance with local regulations. This is a fantastic opportunity to make a significant impact in the regional market.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience working with an SME freight forwarder in Dubai.
• Experience in setting up new operations or launching a new forwarder desired.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.

Responsibilities

• Oversee the establishment of ICL’s Dubai branch and secure compliance with local laws.
• Develop new connections with clients focused on perishable cargo.
• Recruit, train, and manage a team to support branch operations.
• Monitor market trends to inform strategic decisions.

Skills

Business development

Negotiation

Relationship management

Communication skills

Leadership

Job description

Job Title: Commercial Manager / Branch Manager – Dubai Company: International Cargo Logistics Limited (ICL) Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates About International Cargo Logistics Limited: International Cargo Logistics Limited (ICL) are a leading British freight forwarding company specializing in global multimodal freight forwarding via air sea sand road freight. They have a range of extended solutions on offer including ecommerce, fulfilment, drop shipping, temperature-controlled movements of perishables etc and operate in 207 countries worldwide. ICL have a strong reputation moving perishables/ food cargo and supermarket goods. As members of the World Cargo Alliance, their logistics capabilities exceed that of the world’s largest multinationals. They choose to be open to scrutiny and are voluntarily audited and follow a set of forward-thinking standards that add value to their service. That’s why ICL is trusted by companies (from emerging brands to FTSE 100s) to move billions of pounds of cargo around the world every year. As part of their ongoing expansion; and to enhance their services within the GCC region; ICL (who are known as ‘The friendly global logistics partner you can depend on’) are looking to establish a regional branch in Dubai. Position Overview: We are seeking an entrepreneurial and experienced Commercial Manager / Branch Manager to lead our new Dubai office. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record in the freight forwarding industry within the UAE, with experience with perishable cargo and sea and air freight movements. This role requires a self-motivated individual capable of setting up operations, building a team, and driving business growth in the region. Key Responsibilities: Branch Establishment:

▪ Oversee the establishment of ICL’s Dubai branch, including securing office premises and ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.

▪ Assist in obtaining necessary licenses and permits for branch operations. Business Development:

▪ Leverage existing relationships and develop new connections with potential clients in the UAE, focusing on perishable cargo and FCL movements.

▪ Utilize a strong pipeline and book of live business to drive immediate revenue.

▪ Identify and pursue opportunities for westbound shipments from Asia and Africa

and imports from the UK to the UAE. Operations Management:

▪ Negotiate pricing and contracts with airlines, shipping lines, and other suppliers. ▪ Set up services, including warehousing, final-mile delivery, and equipment hire,

ensuring efficient and cost-effective operations. ▪ Ensure compliance with local free zone regulations, port procedures, and other

relevant policies. Team Leadership:

▪ Recruit, train, and manage a team to support branch operations. ▪ Foster a positive and productive work environment, promoting ICL’s values and

customer-centric approach. Strategic Planning:

▪ Develop and implement business strategies to increase market share and profitability in the GCC region.

▪ Monitor market trends and competitor activities to inform strategic decisions. Qualifications:

▪ Minimum of 2 years’ experience working with an SME freight forwarder in Dubai. ▪ Proven track record in business development with an established book of clients

and live business. ▪ In-depth knowledge of the GCC freight forwarding market, particularly in perishable

goods. ▪ Strong relationships with local suppliers, including airlines, shipping lines, and

logistics providers. ▪ Experience in setting up new operations or launching a new forwarder would be

highly desirable. ▪ Comprehensive understanding of local laws, regulations, free zones, and port

procedures in the UAE. ▪ Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills. ▪ Self-motivated, entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for logistics. ▪ Ability to work independently and make informed decisions to drive business

success. Application Process: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience and explaining why they are the ideal fit for this position. Please send your application to [e-mail] with the subject line “Commercial Manager / Branch Manager Application – Dubai.” International Cargo Logistics Limited is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Note: Only candidates meeting the specified criteria will be contacted for further discussions.

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