Sea Freight Forwarding Account Manager

Sea freight Senior Account Manager
Freight Forwarding | Dartford, Kent

We are looking for an experienced freight forwarding professional looking to take ownership of key customer accounts within a growing global logistics business based in Dartford
We are seeking a Sea freight Operator/Senior Sea freight Operator to join the Dartford branch, supporting a portfolio of import and export sea freight customers. This is a customer-focused role that combines operational excellence, commercial awareness, and relationship management to ensure the highest levels of service delivery.
You will be responsible for managing the day-to-day requirements of both new and existing customers, coordinating international freight movements, resolving operational challenges, and ensuring shipments are executed efficiently and compliantly.
This position offers an excellent opportunity for an experienced freight forwarding professional who enjoys building strong customer relationships while maintaining full control of operational and financial performance.

Key Responsibilities

Customer Management
Act as the primary point of contact for allocated customer accounts.
Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, overseas offices and partners.
Deliver exceptional customer service and maintain regular communication regarding shipment progress.
Ensure customer Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are followed at all times.
Proactively identify and resolve customer issues and operational challenges.

Freight Operations
Coordinate import and export sea freight shipments from booking through to final delivery.
Review shipping documentation to ensure accuracy and compliance.
Arrange and monitor customs clearance activities through CDS.
Liaise with shipping lines, ports, hauliers, overseas agents and other freight forwarding partners.
Arrange cargo releases, PIN numbers, restitutions and other shipment-related requirements.
Manage container releases and evaluate transport options, including Merchant Haulage, Carrier Haulage and Rail solutions.
Ensure all operational milestones are completed accurately and within agreed timelines.

Commercial & Financial Management
Raise customer invoices accurately and within required timescales.
Process payments to shipping lines and suppliers where required.
Support business growth through strong customer retention and account development.

Team & Branch Support
Work collaboratively with operational, customs and commercial teams.
Provide support and cover for colleagues during periods of increased workload or absence.
Maintain accurate records and complete all required administration.
Contribute to a positive team culture aligned with company values and objectives.

What We're Looking For

Essential
Previous experience within freight forwarding, logistics or supply chain operations.
Strong knowledge of import and export sea freight processes.
Experience dealing with shipping lines, overseas agents and freight suppliers.
Good understanding of UK customs procedures and CDS declarations.
Strong customer service and relationship management skills.
Commercial awareness with an understanding of costing and profitability.
Excellent organisational skills and attention to detail.
Ability to prioritise workload and manage multiple shipments simultaneously.
Strong communication skills, both written and verbal.

Desirable
Experience managing key customer accounts.
Customs clearance experience.
Knowledge of container haulage and port operations.

Experience with in a multinational freight forwarding environment.

Why Join Us?
Work for a leading international logistics provider.
Opportunity to manage key customer accounts.
Varied and challenging role within a fast-paced industry.
Supportive team environment with opportunities for professional development.
Career progression opportunities for ambitious freight forwarding professionals.

Package and Benefits

* Salary £35,000 to - £45,000 Circa flexible for the right candidate

* Hours Monday to Friday - Flexible working patterns of 8am-4pm, 9am-5pm or 10am-6pm.

* Company events

* Company pension

* Cycle to work scheme

* Free parking

* Health & wellbeing programme

* Life insurance