Freight Forwarding Manager

Momentum Logistics; Sharjah; On-site; AED 120,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A logistics company in the UAE is seeking an experienced Freight Forwarding Manager to lead its ocean freight operations. The role involves developing strategies, enhancing operations, and driving revenue growth while managing a high-performing team. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in freight forwarding, strong leadership skills, and a deep understanding of the UAE market. This position offers significant opportunities for strategic growth and expansion in logistics services.

Qualifications

• 8–10 years’ experience in international freight forwarding, with 5 years in ocean freight leadership roles.
• Proven track record in business development and team management.
• Strong network across shipping lines and port authorities.
• Deep understanding of operational processes and UAE trade compliance.

Responsibilities

• Lead and execute the ocean freight forwarding strategy across the UAE.
• Drive commercial growth and expand the customer base.
• Manage key carrier relationships and negotiate contracts.
• Set and monitor KPIs for operational efficiency and profitability.
• Hire and develop a high-performing team.

Skills

Strategic thinking

P&L management

Commercial acumen

Team leadership

Strong communication skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business

Master’s degree (preferred)

Job description

Overview

Summary: We are is seeking a strategic and results-driven Freight Forwarding Manager to lead and expand its freight forwarding operations across the UAE. This is a national-level leadership role with a core focus on sea freight, reflecting the Group’s strengths and long-term logistics vision.

The successful candidate will be responsible for developing and executing the ocean freight strategy, scaling operations across multiple zones, and driving revenue growth while delivering operational excellence. Future phases will include developing air freight capabilities, providing the right candidate a long-term growth platform.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and execution of the ocean freight forwarding strategy across the UAE.
• Oversee and enhance operations in Sharjah and Jebel Ali, with planned expansion into Hamriyah Free Zone and Abu Dhabi.
• Drive commercial growth by building strong client relationships and expanding the company’s customer base.
• Manage key carrier relationships, negotiate contracts, and ensure competitive pricing structures.
• Collaborate with internal teams (customs, warehousing, transport) to deliver integrated end-to-end logistics solutions.
• Set and monitor KPIs to ensure operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability.
• Hire, develop, and manage a high-performing team to support business growth.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of local and global ocean freight market trends and regulatory changes.
• Prepare regular business performance reports for executive leadership.
• Support strategic planning for future service expansions, including air freight and other multimodal offerings.

Qualifications

• Minimum 8–10 years’ experience in international freight forwarding, with at least 5 years in ocean freight leadership roles within the UAE or wider GCC region.
• Proven track record in P&L management, team leadership, and business development.
• Strong network across shipping lines, port authorities, and regional customers.
• Deep understanding of operational processes, documentation, and UAE trade compliance.
• Familiarity with free zones such as Jebel Ali, Hamriyah, and Abu Dhabi is an advantage.
• Strategic thinker with excellent commercial acumen and decision-making skills.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills; able to represent the company at the highest levels.
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or a related field (Master’s preferred).