Freight Operations Manager

We are seeking an experienced Freight Operations Manager to oversee the day-to-day running of a busy freight forwarding operation in Manchester near the airport. This is an excellent opportunity for an organised and commercially minded individual with a strong background in freight forwarding, proven leadership skills and the ability to ensure a high standard of operational service.

The successful candidate will be responsible for managing the operations team, maintaining service levels, improving operational processes and ensuring shipments are handled efficiently and cost-effectively. You will play a key role in supporting business growth, developing the team and maintaining strong relationships with customers, suppliers and overseas partners.

Location:

Manchester

Salary:
Up to £50,000 per annum

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the freight forwarding department, ensuring shipments are managed efficiently and delivered in line with customer requirements.
• Manage, support and develop the operations team, providing guidance, training and performance management where required.
• Coordinate import and export shipments across relevant freight modes, ensuring accurate documentation and compliance with customs and international shipping regulations.
• Monitor operational performance, service levels and productivity, identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Maintain strong relationships with customers, carriers, hauliers, overseas agents and other logistics partners.
• Handle operational escalations and resolve shipment issues, delays and customer complaints effectively.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations, internal procedures and company quality standards.
• Work closely with sales and commercial teams to support new business implementation and maintain excellent customer service.
• Monitor operational costs and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and profitability.
• Produce and review operational reports, KPIs and performance metrics.
• Support the continuous improvement of systems, processes and working practices across the department.

• Previous experience in a management role within UK freight forwarding.
• Strong understanding of freight operations, including import and export procedures.
• Experience managing, motivating and developing an operations team.
• Good knowledge of customs procedures, shipping documentation and international freight regulations.
• Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to prioritise workloads and manage competing deadlines.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to manage operational challenges in a fast-paced environment.
• Commercial awareness, including an understanding of operational costs, service delivery and profitability.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to build effective working relationships.
• Good IT skills and experience using freight management systems.
• A proactive approach to operational improvement and team development.