Commercial Manager

ALS Recruiting Ltd; Manchester; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Bonus/commission structure

25 days annual leave + bank holidays

Job summary

ALS Recruiting Ltd is seeking an experienced Commercial Manager for a freight forwarding client in Manchester. You will lead growth across Air & Sea Freight, develop key customer relationships, and drive profitability across global freight services.

The role requires a proven track record in international freight forwarding, strong strategic and negotiation skills, and the ability to secure major contracts. Monday–Friday, 8:00–16:00 with a bonus/commission structure and 25 days' leave.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a Commercial Manager or senior commercial role within Air & Sea Freight Forwarding.
• Strong understanding of international air freight, ocean freight, and global supply chains.
• Demonstrated track record of revenue growth and securing major customer contracts.
• Experience negotiating complex agreements and pricing structures.
• Full UK driving license preferred.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute commercial strategies to achieve revenue and profit targets.
• Drive growth across Air & Sea Freight through new business and account development.
• Identify and secure high-value opportunities across import, export, and cross-trade movements.
• Build and maintain relationships with key customers, stakeholders, and strategic partners.
• Lead commercial negotiations, tenders, pricing agreements, and contract discussions.
• Collaborate with customers to develop bespoke freight and supply chain solutions.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and customer requirements to identify growth opportunities.
• Drive expansion through new trade lanes, services, and sectors.
• Coordinate with operations and leadership to ensure service delivery and satisfaction.
• Monitor and report on sales performance, pipeline activity, and forecasts.

Skills

Strategic sales

Account development

Negotiation

Stakeholder management

Leadership

Analytical thinking

Job description

A leading freight forwarding company is seeking an experienced and commercially driven Commercial Manager to lead business growth across its Air & Sea Freight division.

This is an excellent opportunity for a high-performing commercial professional with a proven track record in international freight forwarding to drive strategic growth, develop key customer relationships, and maximize profitability across global air and ocean freight services. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in expanding market share, securing large-scale accounts, and delivering tailored logistics solutions to customers across a range of sectors.

Previous experience within Air & Sea Freight Forwarding is essential.

Package:

• Monday to Friday, 08:00 – 16:00
• Attractive bonus/commission structure
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute commercial strategies to achieve ambitious revenue and profit targets.
• Drive growth across Air & Sea Freight services through new business acquisition and account development.
• Identify, pursue, and secure high-value opportunities across import, export, and cross-trade movements.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key customers, stakeholders, and strategic partners.
• Lead commercial negotiations, tenders, pricing agreements, and contract discussions.
• Work closely with customers to develop bespoke freight and supply chain solutions.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and customer requirements to identify new growth opportunities.
• Drive expansion through new trade lanes, services, and industry sectors.
• Collaborate with operational and leadership teams to ensure exceptional service delivery and customer satisfaction.
• Monitor and report on sales performance, pipeline activity, forecasts, and commercial KPIs.

Requirements:

• Proven experience in a Commercial Manager, Head of Sales, Business Development Manager, or Senior Commercial role within Air & Sea Freight Forwarding.
• Strong understanding of international air freight, ocean freight, customs processes, and global supply chains.
• Demonstrable track record of delivering significant revenue growth and securing major customer contracts.
• Strong commercial acumen with experience negotiating complex agreements and pricing structures.
• Ability to develop and implement strategic growth plans.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
• Results-driven with a proactive and entrepreneurial approach.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Full UK driving license preferred.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a growing and ambitious freight forwarding business in a senior commercial capacity, offering genuine autonomy and the chance to make a significant impact on future growth.