Ocean Freight Operations Manager

Overview

Ocean Freight Operations Manager – Department:
Operations Team. Time Type:
Full-time. This role leads and optimizes maritime logistics toward Europe, especially from Asia, with a focus on end-to-end supply chain excellence and seamless operations.

• End-to-End Operations Management:
  Oversee and execute high-volume ocean freight movements, specifically focusing on the Europe trade lane from Asia.
• Carrier Management & Negotiation:
  Serve as the primary point of contact for Tier-1 carriers such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC. Discuss ocean freight status, secure on-time schedules, and implement countermeasures for logistics issues.
• Port & Gateway Strategy:
  Optimize routing and inland distribution through key European hubs, including Rotterdam (most important), Koper, Rijeka, and Trieste to minimize lead times and costs.
• Customer-Centered Communication:
  Maintain regular communication with customers regarding carrier or port issues and establish counterplans using the network.
• Compliance &
  
  Risk Management:
  
  Ensure shipments comply with EU maritime regulations, customs requirements, and safety standards. Proactively manage disruptions in volatile zones.
• Data-Driven Optimization:
  Analyze KPIs (transit time, vessel utilization, demurrage/detention costs) to drive continuous process improvements.

• Experience: Minimum 7–10 years of experience in ocean freight forwarding or shipping line operations (Senior/Manager level).
• Regional Expertise: Proven track record in Asia–Europe westbound shipments with strong market understanding; global experience is a plus.
• Network: Existing professional relationships with major shipping lines and port authorities in Northern Europe and the Adriatic (Koper/Rijeka) and others.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred.
• Languages: Fluency in English required. Proficiency in Dutch or Korean (or other Asian languages) is advantageous.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Advanced proficiency in data handling and MS Excel.

• Competitive salary aligned with experience.
• Company car.
• Bonus paid twice per year.
• Fully covered healthcare insurance.
• Reduced-rate international and Korean lunch at RHQ.
• Fitness subscription contribution.
• Bike plan.
• 8% holiday allowance and 25+1 holidays (with option to buy 5 more).
• Training and digital learning opportunities and more.

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