Import & Export Operations Lead — Own & Optimize Shipments

SDW Recruitment Limited; Eling; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Enhanced benefits

Growth opportunities

Ownership mindset

Job summary

SDW Recruitment Limited is seeking an Import & Export Operations Coordinator in Southampton to take ownership of shipments, build strong customer relationships and keep operations running smoothly.

The role involves managing customers’ import/export requirements, ensuring shipments are handled efficiently and in line with procedures, while staying commercially focused and supporting KPIs within a collaborative team.

Qualifications

• Experience in freight forwarding, ideally within import and/or export operations.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities.
• Excellent customer service skills with a natural ability to build rapport and maintain lasting relationships.
• Confident communication skills when dealing with customers, suppliers and colleagues.
• A proactive, positive attitude and a genuine willingness to find solutions.
• Good attention to detail, particularly when handling shipment information, invoicing and supplier costs.
• The ability to work independently while contributing positively to a wider team.
• A commercially aware approach, with an understanding of the importance of efficiency, service levels and profitability.

Responsibilities

• Coordinating day-to-day import and export shipments, ensuring everything is processed accurately and on time.
• Managing customer requirements and maintaining regular communication throughout the shipment process.
• Building strong relationships with customers, understanding their needs and delivering a responsive, professional service.
• Liaising with suppliers and overseas offices to ensure shipments run smoothly.
• Monitoring supplier performance and helping maintain consistently high service standards.
• Processing customer invoices promptly and ensuring supplier costs are recorded accurately.
• Working towards departmental KPIs, supporting operational efficiency and profitability.
• Identifying potential problems early, resolving issues proactively and escalating more complex matters when necessary.
• Following established operational procedures and suggesting improvements to existing processes.
• Working closely with the Operations Manager and wider team to deliver excellent results.

Job description

SDW Recruitment Limited is seeking an Import & Export Operations Coordinator in Southampton to take ownership of shipments, build strong customer relationships and keep operations running smoothly.

The role involves managing customers’ import/export requirements, ensuring shipments are handled efficiently and in line with procedures, while staying commercially focused and supporting KPIs within a collaborative team.