AM/DM - Ocean Export

Strategic Executive Search; Mumbai, Pune District; On-site; INR 1,000,000 - 1,400,000; Full time

Job summary

Strategic Executive Search is seeking a seasoned Operations Leader for ocean export logistics in Mumbai. You will oversee the end-to-end shipment lifecycle, ensure compliant documentation, and negotiate with major carriers to optimize costs and service levels.

You will mentor a team of operations executives and CSRs while driving KPIs for on-time delivery, accuracy, and customer satisfaction. This role focuses on complex, global trade flows and requires strong stakeholder management.

Qualifications

• In-depth knowledge of global maritime trade routes and Incoterms (FOB, CIF, EXW).
• Familiarity with export customs regulations and DG handling procedures.
• Hands-on experience with ERP and forwarding systems (CargoWise, SAP, Descartes).
• Strong negotiation and client-management capabilities.

Responsibilities

• Oversee end-to-end shipment lifecycle from booking to delivery.
• Ensure accurate Bills of Lading, manifests, and export documents.
• Negotiate freight rates and space allocations with carriers and vendors.
• Lead and mentor a team of ops staff and CSRs.
• Monitor KPIs like processing time, billing accuracy, and customer satisfaction.

Skills

Domain expertise

Regulatory knowledge

Software proficiency

Negotiation

Problem solving

Tools

CargoWise

SAP

Descartes

Job description

Key Responsibilities

1. Operations & Execution Management

• End-to-End Shipment Lifecycle: Oversee LCL (Less than Container Load) and FCL (Full Container Load) ocean export operations from booking to final delivery.
• Documentation & Compliance: Ensure accurate preparation and timely issuance of Bills of Lading (B/L), Manifests, Certificates of Origin, Custom House Agent (CHA) coordination, and export compliance documents.
• Carrier & Vendor Management: Negotiate freight rates, service contracts, and space allocations with major shipping lines, NVOCCs, and transporters.
• Troubleshooting: Resolve operational bottlenecks, port congestion delays, customs holds, equipment shortages, or vessel roll-overs proactively.

2. Team Leadership & People Management

• Team Supervision: Mentor, train, and manage a team of operations executives and customer service representatives (CSRs).
• Performance Monitoring: Set Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) regarding shipment processing time, billing accuracy, and customer satisfaction.
• Workload Balancing: Distribute daily operational workloads evenly and ensure backup coverage during absences.

3. Customer Service & Account Management

• Client Communication: Act as an escalation point for key accounts, resolving complex client queries, shipment disputes, or service failures promptly.
• Proactive Updates: Ensure the customer service team provides regular tracking updates and milestone notifications to clients.
• Cross-Selling: Identify opportunities to upsell value-added services (e.g., warehousing, insurance, expedited clearance, multi-modal transport) in coordination with the sales team.

4. Financial & Commercial Control

• P&L Responsibility: Monitor shipment-level profitability, ensuring positive net margins by managing buy-rates vs. sell-rates.
• Billing & Revenue Leakage Prevention: Oversee timely invoicing, vendor cost verification, and resolution of debit/credit notes.
• Credit Control: Coordinate with the finance team to minimize outstanding payments and manage aging reports for assigned accounts.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Domain Expertise: In-depth knowledge of global maritime trade routes, Incoterms (especially FOB, CIF, EXW), port operations, and standard ocean shipping terminology.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Familiarity with export customs regulations, DG (Dangerous Goods) handling procedures, and compliance standards (e.g., SOLAS VGM requirements).
• Software Proficiency: Hands-on experience with industry ERP and forwarding systems (e.g., CargoWise, SAP, Descartes, or specific agency software).
• Negotiation & Communication: Strong negotiation skills for carrier procurement and excellent written/verbal communication for client management.
• Problem-Solving & Crisis Management: Ability to handle high-pressure situations calmly, providing alternative routing or solutions during supply chain disruptions.