Senior Freight Forwarding Manager

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

About the Role

Our client, a globally recognized freight forwarding and logistics company, is seeking an experienced and strategic Senior Freight Forwarding Manager to lead their operations in the bustling hub of Sandton, Gauteng. This pivotal role involves overseeing all aspects of international and domestic freight movements, managing key client relationships, optimizing operational efficiency, and driving business growth. The ideal candidate will possess extensive knowledge of multimodal transportation, customs regulations, and a proven ability to manage complex logistical challenges and lead a high-performing team.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and direct the daily operations of the freight forwarding department, including air, sea, and road freight.
• Develop and implement strategies to enhance service quality, operational efficiency, and profitability.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, understanding their needs and providing tailored logistics solutions.
• Oversee and ensure compliance with all relevant international trade regulations, customs procedures, and documentation requirements.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of freight forwarding professionals, fostering a culture of excellence and customer service.
• Negotiate competitive rates with carriers and suppliers to optimize costs and service levels.
• Monitor industry trends, market conditions, and competitor activities to identify new business opportunities.
• Implement and manage freight forwarding systems and technologies to streamline operations.
• Manage departmental budgets and financial performance, ensuring profitability targets are met.
• Resolve complex logistical issues and customer escalations promptly and effectively.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business, or a related field.
• A minimum of 7-10 years of progressive experience in freight forwarding and international logistics, with significant management experience.
• In-depth knowledge of air, sea, and road freight operations, including documentation, customs clearance, and regulatory compliance.
• Proven track record in business development, client relationship management, and achieving growth targets.
• Strong leadership, team management, and strategic planning skills.
• Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving abilities.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding software and related technologies.
• Strong understanding of global trade dynamics and market trends.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under pressure and make sound decisions in a fast-paced environment.
• Must be based in or able to commute effectively to Sandton, Gauteng.

Benefits

• Our client offers a highly attractive executive compensation package, including a competitive base salary, significant performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits such as top-tier medical aid, a robust retirement fund, and potential for international travel.
• This role provides an excellent platform for career advancement within a leading global logistics provider located in the prime business district of Sandton, Gauteng.