Senior Freight Manager

A dynamic, ambitious export and international brand development business based in Durban with associated businesses in several international markets is seeking a Senior Freight Manager, who will be responsible to oversee all aspects of freight operations, ensuring the efficient, price sensitive and timely transportation of goods to global destinations. The successful candidate has a critical duty to optimize the company’s export logistics processes and maintain high standards of service delivery.  

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES, NOT LIMITED TO:  

• Define strategy across all various procurement and sales teams  
• Negotiate bulk freight rates and contracts with services providers, generating innovative solutions to enhance the company’s relevance  
• Pre-book containers for base loads  
• Coordinate the transportation of goods via various modes, including sea freight, air freight, and road transportation  
• Monitor shipment schedules and pro-actively track the movement of goods to ensure on-time delivery  
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations and customs requirements  
• Collaborate with internal teams, including sales, procurement, and warehouse, to coordinate shipment activities effectively  
• Monitor and analyse transportation costs and trends to identify opportunities for cost reduction through negotiation, route optimisation, and process improvement initiatives  
• Resolve any issues or delays in the transportation process, taking proactive measures to minimize disruptions  
• Provide leadership and guidance to the freight team, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous improvement  

REQUIREMENTS   

• Minimum of 7 years of experience in freight management, preferably in an export-oriented business or shipping line  
• Proven history of successfully managing international freight operations, including sea freight and air freight  
• Strong understanding of shipping regulations, customs procedures, and international trade compliance  
• Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships with freight carriers and stakeholders  
• Leadership experience, with the ability to motivate and develop a team  
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field  

Competencies  

• Strategic thinker, with a focus on results
• Analytical mindset, with strong problem-solving skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities
• Pro-active and resourceful, with a hands-on approach to challenges
• Strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction
• Excellent decision maker, able to make good, quality commercial decisions