Senior Global Freight Forwarding Leader

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

Benefits offered by this job

Highly competitive salary

Bonus potential

Medical aid

Retirement fund

International travel

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 in Durban seeks a highly experienced Senior Freight Forwarding Manager to lead and optimize air, sea, and road freight operations. You will drive process improvements, ensure compliance with international trade regulations, and mentor a team of freight professionals.

The role requires strategic business development, strong client relationships, and the ability to manage budgets and P&L while expanding the company's market share in a major port city.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business or related field.
• 8+ years of progressive freight forwarding/international logistics experience, including 3+ years in a managerial role.
• Deep knowledge of global shipping markets, Incoterms, customs procedures, and trade compliance.
• Proven experience managing air, sea and road freight operations.
• Strong leadership and team-management capabilities.
• Excellent business development and client relationship management skills.
• Proficiency with freight forwarding software and relevant IT systems.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with strategic decision-making.
• Exceptional communication and negotiation skills; understands supply chain risk management.
• FIATA Diploma or similar certifications are a plus.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally.

Responsibilities

• Oversee international freight forwarding operations (air, sea, road).
• Ensure compliance with trade laws, customs regulations, and industry standards.
• Develop plans to improve operational efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Lead, mentor and develop a team of freight forwarding professionals.
• Build and maintain relationships with clients, carriers, and overseas partners.
• Drive business development to win new clients and expand offerings.
• Monitor market trends, carrier rates and service levels for competitiveness.
• Oversee shipping documents, customs declarations and tariffs.
• Implement and refine SOPs for all freight forwarding activities.
• Manage budgets and P&L for the freight division.
• Resolve complex operational and client issues promptly.
• Provide accurate KPI reporting for operations and finances.

Skills

Leadership

Client relationship management

Strategic planning

Analytical thinking

Negotiation

Problem-solving

Travel willingness

Education

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

Tools

Freight forwarding software

IT systems proficiency

Job description

Placements24 in Durban seeks a highly experienced Senior Freight Forwarding Manager to lead and optimize air, sea, and road freight operations. You will drive process improvements, ensure compliance with international trade regulations, and mentor a team of freight professionals.

The role requires strategic business development, strong client relationships, and the ability to manage budgets and P&L while expanding the company's market share in a major port city.