Strategic Account Manager – Freight Forwarding

A leading logistics provider is looking for a relationship-focused freight forwarding professional who thrives on nurturing partnerships rather than chasing new targets. This is a unique opportunity to take ownership of an existing portfolio, ensuring excellent service and sustainable growth without the stress of “hunting” for business.

Join a respected global logistics business in Southampton where the team is friendly, supportive, and committed to delivering the best for every client.

In this role, you will be the bridge between our operations and our customers. Working closely with the Commercial Director, you will take charge of newly won clients and become their trusted day‑to‑day contact. Your impact will be measured by client retention and satisfaction. You will combine commercial awareness with a personal touch, solving problems, managing rates, and identifying opportunities to add value to established relationships.

• Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong connections with customers at all levels, acting as their primary advocate within the business.
• Commercial Ownership: Update rate sheets and tariffs, ensuring commercial decisions are smart and profitable.
• Performance Monitoring: Track KPIs and customer deliverables to ensure we are always meeting expectations.
• Operational Liaison: Collaborate daily with the operations team to ensure smooth service delivery and quick problem resolution.
• Analysis & Reporting: Produce reports, review customer data, and support with debtor management.
• Engagement: Attend customer visits and internal meetings to keep relationships active and healthy.

• Industry
  
  Experience:
  
  Previous experience in freight forwarding or logistics is essential to understand the unique needs of our clients.
• Communication: A natural communicator who builds trust quickly and enjoys interacting with people.
• Commercial Awareness: Comfortable working with data, rates, and administration while keeping an eye on the bigger commercial picture.
• Problem Solving: A proactive approach to resolving queries and ensuring client satisfaction.
• Technical
  
  Skills:
  
  Confident using MS Office and managing data.
• Mobility: A full UK driving licence is required for client visits.

• Salary: Competitive salary package.
• Leave: 25 days holiday + Enhanced family leave.
• Health & Wellbeing: Private Medical Cover, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), and Eye Tests.
• Financial Security: Pension scheme and Death in Service (4x salary).
• Bonuses: Discretionary bonus scheme and Christmas thank-you vouchers.
• Lifestyle: Cycle to Work Scheme and Free Parking.
• Flexibility: Office-based role with potential for hybrid working.

If you are ready to move away from either day‑to‑day operations or new business development and focus on what you do best—building great relationships—we want to hear from you. Please apply with your CV and we will be in contact to discuss your application. Confidentiality guaranteed.