Managing Director - Freight Forwarding

JR United Kingdom; York; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading US freight forwarding company seeks a dynamic Managing Director to establish their first UK office. This pivotal role focuses on ocean freight, aiming for aggressive market entry and growth, demanding a proven track record in leadership and commercial development.

Qualifications

• Proven track record of achieving at least £500K in annual gross profit.
• Experience launching or scaling regional offices is desirable.

Responsibilities

• Launch and lead the UK office with full P&L responsibility.
• Build relationships with shipping lines, clients, and supply chain partners.

Skills

Senior leadership experience

Commercial success in market development

Deep knowledge of UK logistics sector

Job description

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Managing Director - Freight Forwarding, York

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Posted:

06.06.2025

Expiry Date:

21.07.2025

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Job Description:

Important: This is a commercial role. You will be expected to sell while establishing the branch. Candidates should have a track record of achieving at least £500K in annual gross profit. The focus is on ocean imports from Asia.

Job Title: Managing Director (Freight Forwarding, focus on ocean freight)

Location: UK – Flexible (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 seeks a commercially driven, strategic Managing Director to establish and lead their first UK office. You may operate individually or with a team of operators.

The company has offices in the US, Asia, and Germany, with plans to open additional offices in Belgium and the Netherlands, making this a key opportunity to shape their UK presence during global expansion.

The role emphasizes ocean freight, with the freedom to build a team and operation tailored to 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 implement UK market entry strategy, focusing on ocean freight growth
• Build relationships with shipping lines, clients, and supply chain partners
• Ensure compliance with UK and international logistics regulations
• Contribute to European growth and integration as a strategic partner

Requirements

• Senior leadership experience in freight forwarding, especially ocean freight
• Contacts with SMEs and a plan for quick profit building
• Proven commercial success in market development and revenue growth
• Experience launching or scaling regional offices is desirable
• Deep knowledge of UK logistics sector and trade corridors
• Entrepreneurial, autonomous, hands-on mindset
• Willing to travel and collaborate internationally