Senior Freight Forwarding Leader — Global Ops, Sandton

Placements24; Sandton; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Executive compensation package

Performance-based bonuses

Medical aid

Retirement fund

Potential for international travel

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Freight Forwarding Manager to lead operations in Sandton, Gauteng. The role oversees international and domestic freight, client relationships, and profitability, with a focus on multimodal transport, regulatory compliance and systems implementation.

The ideal candidate has 7–10 years in freight forwarding, strong leadership, strategic planning, and a proven track record in growth.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree or higher in logistics, supply chain, international business or related field.
• 7–10 years in freight forwarding/international logistics with significant management experience.
• Knowledge of air, sea and road freight ops, documentation, customs clearance and compliance.
• Proven track record in business development and client relationship management, achieving growth targets.
• Strong leadership, team management and strategic planning abilities.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with freight forwarding software and related tech.
• Solid understanding of global trade trends and market dynamics.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Willing to base in or commute to Sandton, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Manage and direct daily operations of freight forwarding including air, sea, and road.
• Develop strategies to enhance service quality, efficiency and profitability.
• Build and maintain relationships with key clients with tailored logistics solutions.
• Oversee compliance with international trade regulations, customs procedures and documentation.
• Lead, mentor and grow a team of freight forwarding professionals.
• Negotiate competitive rates with carriers and suppliers to optimize costs.
• Monitor industry trends and identify new business opportunities.
• Implement and manage freight forwarding systems and technologies to streamline operations.
• Manage departmental budgets and financial performance to meet profitability targets.
• Resolve complex logistical issues and customer escalations promptly.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic planning

Negotiation

Client relationship management

Analytical thinking

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business

Tools

Freight forwarding software

Job description

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Freight Forwarding Manager to lead operations in Sandton, Gauteng. The role oversees international and domestic freight, client relationships, and profitability, with a focus on multimodal transport, regulatory compliance and systems implementation.

The ideal candidate has 7–10 years in freight forwarding, strong leadership, strategic planning, and a proven track record in growth.