Sea Freight & Logistics Operations Manager

Hedz Recruitment Specialists; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 1 500 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics firm seeks a dynamic Freight Group Manager for international operations in the South Pacific. This role requires over 10 years in freight forwarding and management, focusing on team leadership and process improvement. You'll oversee teams, manage critical relationships, and ensure compliance in a vibrant environment. The position offers an attractive expatriate package including housing, transportation, and medical aid, making it a rare opportunity for career growth.

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.
• Strong IT skills including financial and KPI management.

Responsibilities

• Lead multiple freight forwarding teams across various functions.
• Manage senior relationships with carriers and partners.
• Oversee compliance with customs requirements.
• Drive process improvements and operational efficiency.

Skills

Freight forwarding industry knowledge

Team leadership

Communication skills

Relationship management

IT skills

Education

Tertiary qualification in business, logistics, supply chain

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.