Freight Forwarding Manager

The Freight Forwarding Manager will be responsible for managing the end-to-end freight forwarding operations, including coordinating shipments, optimizing routes, managing customs processes, and ensuring compliance with regulations. The ideal candidate will have at least 5 years of experience in freight forwarding and logistics operations in the GCC region, with a deep understanding of local customs regulations, transportation, and supply chain management.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee the daily operations of the freight forwarding team, ensuring smooth handling of shipments from origin to destination.
• Coordinate the movement of air, sea, and land freight, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to customer expectations.
• Optimize transportation routes, freight consolidation, and scheduling to reduce costs and improve service efficiency.
• Ensure proper documentation for each shipment, including customs paperwork, bills of lading, and import/export licenses.
• Act as the primary contact for clients and vendors regarding shipment inquiries, delivery schedules, and operational issues.
• Ensure full compliance with GCC import/export regulations and customs laws for all shipments.
• Coordinate with customs authorities to ensure the timely clearance of goods, minimizing delays.
• Stay updated on customs regulations, tariffs, and trade laws specific to the GCC region to ensure smooth operations.
• Manage and supervise a team of freight forwarding staff, ensuring proper training and performance management.
• Work closely with other departments (sales, procurement, warehouse, and customer service) to ensure seamless coordination of freight activities.
• Set KPIs for the team and ensure performance targets are met.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement within the freight forwarding department.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, suppliers, and service providers.
• Provide high-level support to clients, addressing any operational issues, claims, or service concerns promptly.
• Monitor customer satisfaction and make recommendations for improvements in service delivery.
• Monitor and control the freight forwarding budget, ensuring cost-effectiveness while maintaining high service levels.
• Negotiate competitive rates with shipping lines, airlines, and transport companies to optimize operational costs.
• Review freight invoicing, payments, and cost management processes to ensure accuracy and profitability.
• Identify potential risks and disruptions in the supply chain and develop contingency plans.
• Resolve operational challenges such as delays, damages, and lost shipments, ensuring a minimal impact on customers.
• Ensure all safety and security standards are adhered to during the transportation of goods.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in freight forwarding and logistics operations within the GCC region.
• Deep knowledge of customs regulations, shipping documentation, and freight management within the GCC and internationally.
• Strong understanding of air, sea, and land freight forwarding processes and best practices.
• Proven experience in team leadership, client management, and budget control.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to think on your feet in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in logistics software, MS Office, and ERP systems.