Business Development Manager (Project Cargo)

Li & Fung; Manchester; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A global logistics provider based in Manchester is seeking a Business Development Manager for Project Cargo. This strategic role involves establishing a new Project Development business, leading initiatives that drive operational excellence, and building relationships with stakeholders. Ideal candidates will have a strong background in freight forwarding and project management, with at least 5 years of experience and a proactive approach to business growth. The position involves occasional travel and offers an opportunity to create impactful business solutions.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Freight Forwarding or Project Management.
• Proven track record in managing complex projects successfully.

Responsibilities

• Establish a Projects Cargo Department and develop standard operating procedures.
• Plan and coordinate special projects from inception through completion.
• Build strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

Skills

Sales acumen

Negotiation abilities

Customer-focused approach

Project management skills

Analytical capabilities

Education

Professional qualification in Business Administration or related field

Advanced degree or certification

Tools

Project management tools

MS Office applications

Job description

Are you a movement maker? Are you seeking new and exciting career opportunities? Here is what you need to know about the job: Job Title: Business Development Manager – Project Cargo

Department: Sales
Location: Based in Manchester with occasional National/Regional travel as required
Reports To: General Manager – UK

Overview

This is a strategic role aimed at establishing a new Project Development business within the organisation. The BDM will be responsible for building a product, defining a process, and leading key initiatives that drive operational excellence, sales growth, and business expansion. This role requires a proactive, innovative professional who can create a solid operational foundation from the ground up, leveraging strong project management skills, extensive industry networks, and business development expertise.

Job Summary

We are seeking an accomplished and dynamic professional to serve as a Special Projects Manager, responsible for overseeing and executing key freight forwarding projects aimed at driving strategic growth. In this role, you will lead initiatives that span sales and operational network development and ensure the timely delivery of projects Internationally. The ideal candidate will possess strong project management skills, robust sales expertise, and a well-established network within relevant industries.

Key Responsibilities

• Establish a Projects Cargo Department, including training and development of standard operating procedures.
• Plan, coordinate, and manage special projects from inception through completion, ensuring alignment with organisational objectives, timelines, and budgets.
• Develop strategic project plans, set performance metrics, and monitor progress to achieve desired outcomes.
• Build and sustain strong relationships with internal stakeholders and external partners, including vendors, consultants, and regulatory bodies, to facilitate smooth project execution.
• Identify and capitalise on new business opportunities by leveraging existing relationships and cultivating new sales channels to drive revenue growth.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams (sales, operations, finance, etc.) to integrate innovative solutions that enhance operational efficiency and market competitiveness.
• Utilise data analytics to assess project performance, make informed recommendations, and implement continuous improvements.
• Negotiate contracts and manage vendor relationships to secure advantageous terms and ensure project success.
• Provide regular project updates, performance reports, and risk assessments to senior management.

Qualifications & Experience

• Professional qualification in Business Administration, Project Management, Freight Forwarding/Logistics, or a related field; an advanced degree or professional certification is an advantage.
• Minimum of 5 years’ experience in Freight Forwarding, Project Management and/or a related leadership role, preferably with exposure to sales and operational network initiatives.
• Proven track record in managing complex projects, with clear examples of successful project delivery and business growth.

Key Competencies & Skills

• Demonstrated sales acumen with strong negotiation abilities, business development skills, and a customer-focused approach.
• Extensive operational network experience, with the ability to establish and maintain high-level relationships across various industries.
• Excellent project management skills, including the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and deliver outcomes on schedule.
• Strong analytical capabilities, comfortable using data and market trends to inform decision‑making and foster continuous improvement.
• Superior communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively across diverse teams and engage stakeholders at all levels.
• Proficiency in project management tools, and advanced MS Office applications.
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic work environment while managing ambiguity and changing priorities.

Additional Requirements

• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally as project needs require.
• A proactive, detail‑oriented mindset with a high level of commitment to quality and excellence in service delivery.
• Adaptability and resilience in a fast‑paced, evolving business environment.

If this sounds like you, Apply Now!

As an equal opportunity employer, we shall consider all applicants regardless of gender, age, religion, marital status, race, sexual orientation, disability, disease, pregnancy, or trade union and/or political affiliation, and disregard all factors deemed inappropriate by local law and the International Labor Organization’s Declaration on Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.