Strategic Account Manager

Innovazi Consulting (Pty) Ltd; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

Innovazi Consulting (Pty) Ltd is seeking a Strategic Account Manager with deep freight forwarding, customs clearance, and contract logistics experience to drive cross-border Africa solutions.

The role requires a customer-centric leader capable of delivering innovative supply chain enhancements while managing complex client ecosystems. Strong communication, leadership, and BI-aware decision-making are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Matric is required.
• BCom Logistics is required.
• Knowledge of Incoterms.

Responsibilities

• Ensure delivery of multi-modal solutions to service standards and KPIs.
• Act as single point of contact for operational escalations.
• Collaborate with operations to meet customer expectations.
• Identify opportunities for supply chain improvement and cost efficiency.
• Partner with operations and IT to create innovative solutions.
• Ensure accurate, high-quality reporting for customers.
• Develop risk mitigation strategies across providers.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Customer-centric mindset

Networking

Communication skills

Problem solving

Education

Matric

BCom Logistics

Tools

Microsoft Office

Ship Shape

Cargowise

JDA / WMS

QlikView / BI tools

Job description

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Strategic Account Manager to join a leading organisation in the logistics and supply chain sector. This role is designed for a seasoned professional with deep expertise in freight forwarding, customs clearing, contract logistics, and cross‑border operations into Africa.
The position requires a strong customer‑centric mindset, proven leadership ability, and the capacity to deliver innovative solutions within complex supply chain ecosystems. Candidates should be motivated by results, capable of driving efficiencies, and committed to maintaining the highest standards of service delivery.

Minimum Qualifications

• Matric
• BCom Logistics
• Knowledge of Incoterms

Knowledge & Experience

• 7–10 years’ proven expertise in freight forwarding, customs clearing, contract logistics, cross‑border road freight, and exports into Africa.
• Strong understanding of advanced international trade principles.
• Experience in employee, supplier, and customer‑facing environments.
• Track record in sales, marketing, or customer‑centric roles within high‑performance organisations.
• Ability to interpret complex supply chain ecosystems and provide innovative solutions.
• Customer‑centric approach with a passion for delivering outstanding service.
• Strong leadership skills to inspire and align diverse teams.
• Networking ability, assertiveness, and confidence to achieve objectives.
• Strategic thinker with short‑and long‑term vision, motivated to meet revenue goals.
• Critical thinker with accuracy, attention to detail, and experience in big data/business intelligence for forecasting and decision‑making.
• Digitally savvy with strong financial and business acumen.
• Superior communication skills (written and verbal).
• Advanced computer proficiency: Microsoft Office, Ship Shape, Cargowise, JDA or equivalent WMS, QlikView or BI tools. Project management skills advantageous.
• Flexibility to work weekends, overtime, and participate in 24‑hour communication groups.

Advantageous Attributes

• Strong customer service orientation.
• Effective problem‑solving and decision‑making skills.
• Skilled in report writing.
• Independent, dynamic self‑starter.
• Resilient under pressure.
• Team player contributing to collective success.
• Adaptable in a fast‑changing environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure delivery of multi‑modal solutions to the highest service standards based on client scope, KPIs, and SOPs.
• Act as single point of contact for all operational escalations, including outsourced providers.
• Collaborate with operations to ensure contracts and SOPs meet customer expectations.
• Identify opportunities for supply chain improvement, delivering measurable value through cost reduction and efficiency gains.
• Partner with operations and IT to create innovative solutions that differentiate service delivery.
• Ensure accurate, high‑quality reporting aligned with customer requirements.
• Develop and implement risk mitigation strategies across all service providers.