Freight forwarding and commercial manager

HL Logistics (HLOG); Dubai; On-site; USD 80,000 - 120,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics company in Dubai seeks a seasoned Commercial Leader to drive growth in freight forwarding operations across air, sea, and land logistics. The successful candidate will leverage their startup experience, exceptional sales skills, and industry knowledge to build a strong client portfolio, especially in large-scale and oil & gas projects. This role requires not only commercial acumen but also the capability to mentor a team and ensure operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• 7+ years in international freight forwarding with 3 years in a startup.
• 5+ years in commercial leadership with a focus on large accounts.
• Fluency in English; French preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commercial plans to drive revenue growth.
• Engage and close key accounts, preparing and negotiating contracts.
• Lead and mentor junior staff, establishing standard operating procedures.

Skills

Sales capabilities

Negotiation skills

Client portfolio management

CRM proficiency

Hands-on experience in freight operations

Leadership

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related field

Job description

You’ll lead and elevate end-to-end freight forwarding operations in Dubai, focusing on commercial growth in air, sea, and land logistics. This role demands a seasoned professional with startup experience, strong sales capabilities, and proven success building and retaining client portfolios in large-scale and oil & gas projects. Key Responsibilities Commercial Leadership • Develop and execute strategic commercial plans to drive revenue growth across freight forwarding services, with special focus on project-based and oil & gas sectors • Identify, engage, and close key accounts—bringing in new clients and securing high-volume contracts • Prepare and negotiate tenders, quotes, and long-term contracts—ensuring profitability and favorable terms • Maintain and grow a rich client portfolio; proactively manage account retention, upselling, and relationships Startup & Operational Expertise • Apply hands-on experience from previous startup freight forwarding operations to build scalable processes and agile teams • Lead and mentor junior staff, establishing standard operating procedures and ensuring operational accuracy—from booking to delivery, customs, and documentation • Collaborate cross-functionally (operations, finance, sales, IT) to improve workflows, implement logistics technology (ERP, CargoWise, CRM) and ensure seamless delivery Financial & Budget Control • Develop and manage freight forwarding budgets, including rate negotiations, cost optimization, and monitoring commercial performance (P&L) • Track key performance indicators like revenue growth, gross profit, client retention, and share of wallet expansion Market, Client & Regulatory Expertise • Leverage deep knowledge of UAE freight, customs processes, and GCC regulations to ensure compliance and efficient cross-border logistics • Bring forward existing relationships with oil & gas EPC clients or other large-project stakeholders • French-speaking preferred, English mandatory; Arabic a plus

• 7+ years in international freight forwarding with at least 3 years in a startup or entrepreneurial environment • 5+ years in commercial leadership: winning large accounts, meeting or exceeding revenue targets • Demonstrated experience in developing client portfolios, especially in oil & gas and project logistics • Excellent negotiation and sales skills, with CRM proficiency • Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field • Fluent in English; French highly desired Preferred • Professional certification such as FIATA, IATA, FCCA, or equivalent • Background in tier?1 freight forwarding, project logistics, or EPC services