Supply Chain Manager - Logistics

1st Executive; Crawley; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

1st Executive is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day logistics team and ensure smooth international food trading operations. You will act as the central link between Logistics, Finance and Trading, driving accurate information and efficient processes.

In this hands-on role, you will manage shipping schedules, liaise with freight forwarders, monitor costs and KPIs, and support senior management with planning and continuous improvement initiatives across global

Qualifications

• Experience in an Operations Manager, Logistics Manager or Supply Chain Manager role.
• Experience in international food trading, food distribution, import/export or FMCG would be advantageous.
• Strong leadership and cross-functional collaboration across Logistics, Finance and Trading.

Responsibilities

• Manage, support and develop the logistics team to move goods internationally.
• Serve as the main link between Logistics and Finance, managing invoicing and costs.
• Coordinate shipments with Trading to meet customer requirements and deadlines.
• Oversee shipping schedules, freight forwarders, customs documents and international transport arrangements.
• Identify and resolve operational issues and discrepancies across departments.
• Improve internal processes and reporting for greater efficiency across the business.
• Monitor logistics costs, shipment performance and KPIs.
• Ensure compliance with import/export and food industry regulations.
• Support senior management with planning and continuous improvement initiatives.

Skills

People management

Logistics management

International shipping

Cross-functional collaboration

Cost control

Communication

Problem-solving

Finance & invoicing awareness

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.