Managing Director - Freight Forwarding

JR United Kingdom; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A US-based freight forwarding client is seeking a commercially driven and strategically minded Managing Director to establish and lead their first UK office. This unique opportunity involves launching operations in the UK focused on ocean freight, driving market growth while ensuring compliance with logistics regulations. The role requires strong leadership skills, proven ability in business development, and deep knowledge of UK logistics.

Qualifications

• Senior leadership experience in freight forwarding, specifically ocean freight.
• Proven ability in market development and revenue increase.
• Contacts with SMEs for rapid profit growth.

Responsibilities

• Launch and lead the UK office with full P&L responsibility.
• Develop and execute the UK market entry strategy for ocean freight growth.
• Build relationships with shipping lines, clients, and supply chain partners.

Skills

Leadership

Business Development

Market Development

Strategic Thinking

Ocean Freight Knowledge

UK Logistics Knowledge

Job description

Job Title: Managing Director (freight forwarding with a big focus on ocean freight)

Location: UK – Flexible (Any major logistics hub: London, Felixstowe, Southampton, Manchester, Birmingham, etc.)

Salary: Up to £200K + commission and potential shares in the UK business

About the Role

A US based freight forwarding client is seeking a commercially driven and strategically minded Managing Director to establish and lead their first UK office. You are encouraged to bring a team to support your business.

With offices in the US, Asia, and Germany and plans to open additional locations including Belgium and the Netherlands, this is a unique opportunity to shape the UK presence during a key phase of global expansion.

The role focuses on ocean freight, with the freedom to build a team and operations to meet market needs.

Key Responsibilities

• Launch and lead the UK office with full P&L responsibility
• Lead business development and build a high-performing team
• Develop and execute the UK market entry strategy for ocean freight growth
• Build relationships with shipping lines, clients, and supply chain partners
• Ensure compliance with UK and international logistics regulations
• Contribute to broader European growth as a strategic partner

Requirements

• Senior leadership experience in freight forwarding, especially ocean freight
• Contacts with SMEs and a plan for rapid profit growth
• Proven success in market development and revenue increase
• Experience in launching or expanding regional offices (preferred)
• Deep knowledge of UK logistics and trade routes
• Entrepreneurial, autonomous, hands-on approach
• Willing to travel and collaborate internationally