Operations Manager - Logistics & Trading

1st Executive; Crawley; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

1st Executive in the United Kingdom seeks an experienced Operations Manager to oversee logistics and trading support across international markets.

You will lead the logistics team, coordinate with Finance and Trading, and drive efficient processes, cost control and compliance. The role requires a hands-on leader who can deliver in a fast-paced trading environment.

Qualifications

• Experience leading logistics teams in international operations.
• Background in food trading or FMCG is advantageous.
• Strong leadership and cross-department collaboration.
• Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities.
• Highly organized and proactive in fast-paced trading environments.

Responsibilities

• Manage and develop the logistics team for international operations.
• Act as main link between Logistics, Finance and Trading.
• Coordinate shipments, manage customer requirements and on-time delivery.
• Oversee shipping schedules, freight forwarders and customs documentation.
• Identify and resolve operational issues across departments.
• Improve processes, reporting and internal communication.
• Monitor logistics costs and KPIs.
• Ensure compliance with international shipping and food industry regulations.
• Support senior management with planning and continuous improvement.

Skills

Operations Manager

Logistics Manager

Supply Chain Manager

People Management

International Shipping

Finance & Invoicing

Communication

Process Improvement

Job description

Operations Manager - Logistics & Trading Support

I am currently working for an international food trading and supply business, sourcing and distributing food products across global markets. The business works with an extensive network of suppliers and customers, providing food sourcing, logistics and financial support.

The Role

They are looking for an experienced and hands-on Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day management of the logistics team and ensure the smooth running of international food trading operations.

This is a key position within the business, acting as the central link between Logistics, Finance and the Trading teams, ensuring effective communication, accurate information and efficient processes across all departments.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage, support and develop the logistics team, ensuring the efficient movement of goods across international markets.
• Act as the main point of contact between Logistics and Finance, ensuring accurate documentation, invoicing, payment information and cost control.
• Work closely with the Trading team to coordinate shipments, manage customer requirements and ensure orders are delivered on time.
• Oversee shipping schedules, freight forwarders, customs documentation and international transport arrangements.
• Identify and resolve operational issues, delays and discrepancies between departments.
• Improve internal processes, reporting and communication to ensure greater efficiency across the business.
• Monitor logistics costs, shipment performance and operational KPIs.
• Ensure compliance with relevant international shipping, import/export and food industry regulations.
• Support senior management with operational planning and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills & Experience

• Previous experience in an Operations Manager, Logistics Manager or Supply Chain Manager role.
• Experience within international food trading, food distribution, import/export or FMCG would be highly advantageous.
• Strong people management and leadership skills.
• Good understanding of international shipping, freight forwarding and logistics processes.
• Commercially aware, with an understanding of finance, invoicing and operational costs.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work across multiple departments.
• Highly organised, proactive and comfortable working in a fast-paced trading environment.
• Strong problem-solving skills and a hands-on approach.

The Ideal Candidate

A commercially minded, organised and confident Operations Manager who enjoys bringing teams together, improving processes and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Someone who can bridge the gap between Logistics, Finance and Trading, take ownership of day-to-day operations and help support the continued growth of the business.