Operations Manager

Metro; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a skilled Operations Manager to oversee freight forwarding activities. This pivotal role involves managing day-to-day operations, fostering relationships with clients and suppliers, and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. The ideal candidate will have over a decade of experience in the freight forwarding sector, strong leadership abilities, and a proven track record of optimizing profitability. Join a dynamic team that values innovation and offers numerous opportunities for professional growth in a supportive environment. If you're ready to take your career to the next level, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Competitive salary with biannual bonus

Gym membership discounts

Health cash plan

Electric vehicle car scheme

Free parking

Respectful working environment

Training and development opportunities

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in freight forwarding with management experience.
• Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end Letter of Credit operations and project shipments.
• Collaborate with teams to maximize cost efficiency and revenue opportunities.

Skills

Leadership skills

Problem-solving abilities

Communication skills

Attention to detail

Project management

Job description

Powered by industry-leading Metro technology, Metro delivers import/export air, ocean and road freight forwarding, supply chain management, logistics and specialised services in retail, manufacturing and chemicals.

At Metro, it's our innovative technologies, pushing of boundaries, and most importantly, our employees that set us apart.

The role involves managing day-to-day operations, documentation, budgeting with full P&L responsibility for the assigned activities within the department. Working closely with and developing relationships with suppliers, overseas partners, operations management and the wider commercial team.

Key Responsibilities:

Operations Management:

• Manage end-to-end Letter of Credit operation including: vetting of draft letters of credit, preparation of all presentation documents on behalf of the client, monitoring and follow-up of presentation.
• Coordinate project shipments, sensitive/high-profile bookings for the client end-to-end.
• Prepare and manage all documentation, including invoicing and resolution of purchase invoices.
• Arrange and oversee all necessary operational activities related to global origin movements.
• Close liaison with clients and their appointed 3PL/4PL as appropriate.

Commercial and Strategic Collaboration:

• Work closely with the commercial team to maximize cost efficiency and revenue opportunities.
• Collaborate with the transport team to identify and manage domestic collection and delivery operations in the most cost-effective manner.
• Support the commercial development of the customer’s activities with sufficient skilled resource operationally.

Relationship Management:

• Foster and strengthen relationships with customers, supply chain and overseas partners to develop opportunities.
• Work with the wider management team to contribute to the strategic development of the company.

Financial and Budgetary Responsibilities:

• Support budgeting process of letter of credit and project activity, ensuring accurate financial planning.
• Manage profit and loss (P&L) to meet financial targets and optimize profitability of the department in association with the department manager.

Compliance and Process Management:

• Monitor and maintain compliance with all industry regulations and company policies.
• Ensure all company processes and procedures are followed and maintained.

Requirements:

• 10+ years’ experience in freight forwarding environment with previous management experience.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Ability to handle multiple projects and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and collaboration skills.
• Knowledge of industry regulations and best practices in freight forwarding.
• Knowledge and working experience of letters of credit.

Why choose Metro?

• Competitive salary including a bonus which is paid twice a year!
• Access to our benefits, discounts and wellness platform including offers on gym memberships, a wide range of restaurants, retail and much more.
• Health cash plan.
• Octopus Electric Vehicle car scheme.
• Free parking.
• Respectful working environment.
• Plenty of opportunities for training and development.