C & F Controller

Company Description

Alpha Shipping Agency (Pty) Ltd is dedicated to providing high-quality ship agency services to its principals and customers. The company operates with a strong ethical foundation and emphasizes personalized service to meet the specific needs of each client. By focusing on reliability, professionalism, and attention to detail, Alpha Shipping builds long-term relationships in the maritime sector. Team members are encouraged to uphold these standards, contributing to the loyal support the company receives from its clients.

The C & F Controller is a full-time, on-site role based in Durban, responsible for overseeing clearing and forwarding processes for shipping operations. Day-to-day tasks include coordinating documentation for imports and exports, ensuring compliance with customs and port regulations, and tracking shipments from origin to destination. The role involves liaising with clients, shipping lines, transport providers, and internal teams to resolve queries, manage timelines, and maintain accurate records.

The C & F Controller also monitors costs, prepares reports, and supports continuous improvement of operational procedures to uphold the company’s service standards.

• Strong knowledge of clearing and forwarding procedures, customs regulations, and port operations.
• Proficiency in documentation handling, including bills of lading, customs entries, and related shipping paperwork.
• Solid organizational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines.
• Effective communication and client service skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in data entry, record keeping, and compliance-related tasks.
• Comfort with relevant shipping, logistics, and office software; basic proficiency in MS Office applications.
• Previous experience in shipping, logistics, or a similar C & F controller role is strongly preferred.
• Relevant qualification in logistics, supply chain, or a related field is an advantage.
• Ability to work on-site in Durban and adapt to a fast-paced operational environment.
• Education:
  
  Grade 12 / Matric required (a tertiary qualification in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Freight Forwarding would be advantageous).
• Valid South African driver's license.
• Tech
  
  Skills:
  
  Proficiency in MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Understanding of Incoterms

• Oversee end-to-end logistics operations across ocean, air and road freight for both inbound and outbound shipments.
• Co-ordinate cargo handling with warehouse including receiving stock, storage, packing, VGM and Inventory management as per prevailing SOP.
• Track shipments actively from origin to destination, resolving potential delays or operational bottlenecks proactively.
• Log, update, and manage shipment files accurately as per company SOP.

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients, providing daily operational updates and timely status reporting.
• Partner with internal departments, external vendors, and subcontractors to ensure smooth service delivery within agreed timelines.
• Foster strong, long-term working relationships with clients and service providers to drive operational efficiency.

• Generate and manage crucial shipping documents, such as Certificates of Origin, EUR1, SADC certificates, and electronic tracking notes.
• Prepare and submit accurate details for processing of customs entries while ensuring strict adherence to South African trade, statutory, and legal frameworks.
• Advise clients on regulatory demands, mandatory documentation, and customs clearance procedures.

• When required, negotiate competitive rates and service terms with subcontractors, keeping detailed records of all agreements.
• Manage operational finances by accurately recording sales/cost accruals and issuing invoices within specified deadlines.
• Ensure all job files are commercially sound, compliant, and closed out correctly.

• Minimum of 1 year hands-on experience within the freight forwarding and logistics sector.
• Solid experience handling airfreight and sea freight, imports, and exports (multi-modal expertise is a strong plus).
• Proven track record in customs compliance, statutory documentation, and South African border/port regulations.

• Commercial Acumen: Strong understanding of shipment costing, margin control, and operational profitability.
• Organizational
  
  Skills:
  
  Exceptional attention to detail with the ability to prioritize and handle multiple fast-paced shipments simultaneously.
• Communication: Outstanding verbal and written communication skills; comfortable interacting with diverse, international stakeholders.
• Problem-Solving: Proactive approach with sound judgment and decision-making capabilities under pressure.

Goodluck!