Sea Freight & Logistics Operations Manager

Hedz Recruitment Specialists; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading freight and logistics company is seeking a dynamic Freight Group Manager to drive operations in the South Pacific region. This role requires over 10 years of experience in freight forwarding and at least 5 years in senior management. The successful candidate will manage multiple teams, ensure regulatory compliance, and develop operational strategies. An attractive salary package includes expatriate benefits. If you're ready for an exciting international adventure, we want to hear from you.

Benefits

Fully furnished housing

Transportation

Medical aid

Visa sponsorship

Flights to and from South Africa

Qualifications

• 10+ years experience in the freight forwarding industry.
• 5+ years in a senior management role within freight forwarding or logistics.
• Strong IT skills including Microsoft Office.
• Proven ability to motivate large teams in fast-paced environments.
• Excellent communication skills with clients and stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple freight forwarding teams across various functions.
• Manage relationships with airlines, shipping lines, and partners.
• Ensure compliance with customs and regulatory requirements.
• Develop operational procedures and training programs.
• Oversee departmental budgets and performance KPIs.
• Act as a senior point of contact for high-value clients.

Skills

Leadership

Stakeholder relationship management

Communication

IT skills

Import/export documentation knowledge

Team motivation

Education

Tertiary qualification in business, logistics, or related field

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Group Freight Manager – Sea Freight & Logistics Operations Manager

Location: South Pacific

Work Type: Freight Forwarding & Projects

Are you a senior logistics professional ready for an international adventure? Our client, a leading South Pacific freight and logistics company, is looking for a dynamic, results-driven Freight Group Manager to join their leadership team. This is your chance to lead a large, high-performing team, make a real impact on operations, and enjoy an attractive expatriate package in one of the most exciting regions of the South Pacific.

The Package

• R1,500,000 per year
• Expat benefits include:
  • Fully furnished housing
  • Transportation
  • Medical aid
  • Visa sponsorship
  • Flights to and from South Africa

Minimum Requirements

• 10+ years experience in the freight forwarding industry, with strong knowledge of import/export documentation, global routing, customs procedures, and regulatory compliance.
• 5+ years in a senior management role within freight forwarding or logistics.
• Relevant tertiary qualification in business, logistics, supply chain, or a related field preferred.
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office and management reporting (financials and KPIs).
• Proven ability to lead, develop, and motivate large teams in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.
• Excellent communication and relationship management skills with clients, suppliers, and stakeholders.
• Self-starter mindset, capable of working independently and supporting after-hours operations if required.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire multiple freight forwarding teams across import, export, bonded warehousing, customs brokerage, and port agency.
• Manage senior relationships with airlines, shipping lines, overseas agents, and key partners.
• Ensure full compliance with PNG Customs, NAQIA, and Trusted Trader requirements.
• Develop and implement operational procedures, SOPs, and staff training programs.
• Oversee departmental budgets, P&L, and performance KPIs.
• Act as a senior point of contact for high-value clients and suppliers.
• Drive process improvements and operational efficiency to exceed customer expectations.

Desirable but Not Essential

• Previous international or expatriate experience.

This is a rare opportunity for an experienced freight/logistics leader to grow their career internationally, take on significant leadership responsibility, and enjoy a competitive package in a vibrant and challenging environment. If you are ready to take on this adventure and make a tangible impact, we want to hear from you.