Freight Operations Manager

Atrax Logistics; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 40 000 - 80 000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a dynamic Operations Manager to lead their team in Isando, Johannesburg. This pivotal role involves overseeing multimodal freight operations, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and managing a diverse team. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in logistics and freight forwarding, with a strong ability to make quick decisions under pressure. Join a trusted logistics brand that values quality, accountability, and service excellence, and play a crucial role in shaping the future of logistics solutions in South Africa.

Benefits

Market-related salary

Performance incentives

Medical aid

Life cover

Retirement annuity

Qualifications

• 5+ years in senior operations management in freight forwarding.
• Deep understanding of airfreight, seafreight, and customs processes.

Responsibilities

• Oversee multimodal operations and ensure smooth coordination.
• Lead and train a team of 30+ staff across various departments.

Skills

Operations Management

Team Leadership

Customs Compliance

Freight Forwarding

Cost Analysis

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Logistics or related field

Tools

Shipshape

Job description

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.Operations Manager – Multimodal Freight (Air, Sea & Road) Isando, Johannesburg | Full-Time | On-SiteDrive Operational Excellence at Atrax LogisticsAtrax Logistics is a proudly South African logistics company with a strong African footprint and international reach.

With services covering airfreight, seafreight, cross-border transport, customs clearing, warehousing, and e-commerce fulfilment, we deliver integrated, high-performance logistics solutions across the globe.We are searching for a hands-on, experienced Operations Manager to lead our operations team in Isando, Johannesburg.

If you're a logistics professional with at least 5 years' senior-level experience, have worked across all modes of transport, and are confident managing teams and navigating complexity—we want to hear from you.Role OverviewThe ideal candidate will have a deep, working knowledge of every step in the freight forwarding process—from quoting and booking, to customs clearance, transport planning, document control, and delivery.

You must be able to train teams, make real-time operational decisions, navigate risks, and uphold service quality and compliance across air, sea, and road freight movements.Key Responsibilities Multimodal Operational ManagementOversee all airfreight, seafreight, and cross-border export / import operationsEnsure smooth coordination of bookings, customs clearances, transport, and final deliveryDraft and manage transport documentation, bills of lading, export permits, and client packsUse your firsthand knowledge of each mode to step in when needed and solve operational challenges quickly Team Leadership & TrainingLead, coach, and grow a team of 30+ staff across various departmentsImplement and maintain training programmes, SOPs, and process improvementsFoster a culture of accountability, motivation, and customer-first thinking Quoting, Costing & Commercial SupportPrepare your own accurate quotations using real-time cost analysisApply Incoterms fluently and tailor solutions to client and cargo requirementsSupport commercial and client service teams with pricing strategies and value-added services Customs & Compliance OversightEnsure full compliance with SARS customs regulations, trade legislation, and government protocolsLiaise with State Vet, Port Health, NRCS, and other regulatory departmentsOversee and review customs entries, tariffing, and permit / documentation accuracyNavigate risk areas and make decisions on-the-spot to protect the business and the client Systems & TechnologyOperate and manage logistics processes through Shipshape software (mandatory experience advantageous)Monitor and maintain clean data flows, billing accuracy, and audit-ready documentationCreate process dashboards and reporting tools to track performanceMinimum Requirements5+ years in a senior operations management role within the freight forwarding industryDeep understanding of airfreight, seafreight, cross-border, warehousing, and customs processesExperience managing teams of 30 or more staff in a high-volume logistics environmentStrong working knowledge of Shipshape or similar freight systemsProven ability to quote clients, complete customs entries, and draft transport documentationExtensive knowledge of Incoterms, HS codes, and SARS regulationsStrong communication, decision-making, and leadership skillsValid driver's license and own transportAbility to work under pressure and resolve issues decisively and professionallyIdeal Candidate Profile You've done the daily work yourself—from booking to border clearance You're calm under pressure and think fast on your feet You can lead, coach, and roll up your sleeves when needed You understand the technical side, but never lose sight of the client You uphold the company's ethos of quality, accountability, and serviceWhat We Offer Market-related salary + performance incentives Medical aid, life cover, and retirement annuity A leadership role where your decisions and input shape the business A trusted logistics brand with local roots and global visionApply NowIf you're ready to step into a pivotal leadership role and drive operational excellence across multiple logistics modes, we'd love to connect.

Submit your CV and a concise cover letter outlining your experience across air, sea, road, and customs operations.Seniority levelSeniority levelMid-Senior levelEmployment typeEmployment typeFull-timeJob functionJob functionManagement and ManufacturingIndustriesTransportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and StorageReferrals increase your chances of interviewing at Atrax Logistics by 2xGet notified about new Freight Operations Manager jobs in Kempton Park, Gauteng, South Africa.We're unlocking community knowledge in a new way.

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