Ocean Import Customer Services

Metro; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A logistics company in Birmingham is seeking an Import Operator for their Ocean Import Customer Services team. This role involves booking freight, handling customer queries, and ensuring documentation accuracy. The ideal candidate will have solid knowledge of ocean freight operations and excellent communication skills. Additional benefits include a discretionary bonus, health perks, and opportunities for career mobility and growth within the company.

Benefits

Discretionary bi-annual bonus

Health & wellness perks

Health cash plan

Octopus EV car scheme

Free parking

Inclusive culture

Training & development

Career mobility

Cross-training opportunities

Qualifications

• Experience in freight operations and handling customer queries.
• Ability to meet tight deadlines and work under pressure.
• Proactive attitude with enthusiasm and flexibility.

Responsibilities

• Booking freight with approved carriers.
• Building strong relationships with clients.
• Handling customer queries professionally.
• Processing supplier invoices accurately.

Skills

Knowledge of ocean freight operations

Attention to detail

Excellent communication skills

Numerical acumen

Team-oriented mindset

Tools

Microsoft Office

Cargowise

Job description

Join Metro – Where Innovation Meets Logistics Excellence

At Metro, we don’t just move freight - we move boundaries. Powered by cutting‑edge technology and driven by passionate people, we deliver world‑class import / export solutions across air, ocean, and road freight, as well as supply‑chain management and specialist services in retail, manufacturing, automotive and chemical sectors amongst others.

We’re looking for a detail‑oriented and customer‑focused Import Operator to join our Ocean Import Customer Services team.

If you thrive in a fast‑paced environment, enjoy solving problems, and want to be part of a company that values innovation and growth - this is your next career move.

What You’ll Be Doing

As part of our Ocean Import Customer Services team, you’ll be the heartbeat of our international freight operations, ensuring goods travel smoothly across borders and oceans. Your role will include :

• Booking freight with approved carriers and shipping lines.
• Building strong relationships with clients to deliver outstanding service.
• Handling customer queries and resolving them quickly and professionally.
• Communicating clearly with overseas agents and clients via email, phone, and online systems.
• Ensuring pre‑alert documents are received before vessel arrival.
• Verifying and managing correct documentation for shipments.
• Processing supplier invoices accurately and on time.
• Maintaining customer and supplier spreadsheets.
• Keeping the sales team informed of client activity and profitability.
• Updating the departmental manager on the status of all shipments.

What You’ll Bring

We’re looking for someone who’s not just experienced, but passionate about logistics. You’ll need :

• Solid knowledge of ocean freight operations.
• A sharp eye for detail and understanding of its commercial impact.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong numerical and commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office and Windows systems (Cargowise experience is a plus).
• A proactive, team‑oriented mindset with great time management.
• Enthusiasm, flexibility, and self‑motivation.

Why Metro?

We believe in rewarding our people. Here’s a selection of what you’ll enjoy :

• Discretionary bi‑annual bonus – because your success drives ours.
• Health & wellness perks – including gym discounts, retail offers, and more.
• Health cash plan – supporting your wellbeing.
• Octopus EV car scheme – drive electric, drive smart.
• Free parking – no stress, no cost.
• Respectful, inclusive culture – where your voice matters.
• Training & development – grow with us, every step of the way.

Plus, You’ll Enjoy :

• Career Mobility & Growth – We actively promote from within and offer clear pathways to progress into senior roles or explore other departments.
• Cross‑Training Opportunities – Expand your skillset by working across different freight modes and supply‑chain functions.
• Fast‑Paced, High‑Impact Work – Be part of a team that thrives on energy, agility, and delivering results under pressure.
• Make a Global Impact – Help major international brands deliver on time, every time - your work keeps global supply chains moving.
• Tech‑Driven Efficiency – Work with industry‑leading systems like Cargowise and MVT to streamline operations and reduce manual tasks.