Freight Forward Operations Manager

We are seeking a results-driven and versatile Leader to fill a critical role that blendsBusiness Development, Strategic Pricing, and Operational Excellence. This individual will be responsible for generating new revenue streams, crafting winning pricing strategies, and ensuring the flawless execution of all shipments. This is a high-impact position for a entrepreneurial professional who can manage both the commercial and operational sides of the business.

Business Development & Sales (40%)

• Develop and execute a strategic business development plan to identify, target, and secure new clients within key market verticals.
• Generate qualified leads through networking, industry events, cold calling, and leveraging existing relationships.
• Build and maintain a robust sales pipeline, managing the entire sales cycle from initial contact to contract negotiation and closing.
• Prepare and deliver compelling presentations and proposals that articulate our value proposition and tailor solutions to prospective client needs.
• Cultivate strong, long-term relationships with new and existing clients, acting as their primary strategic contact.
• Collaborate with marketing to develop targeted campaigns and sales collateral.
• Meet or exceed agreed-upon sales targets and revenue goals.

Pricing & Quotation Strategy (30%)

• Develop and execute a proactive pricing strategy for RFQs, spot quotes, and long-term contracts that wins business while protecting profit margins.
• Lead negotiations with carriers, airlines, shipping lines, and truckers to secure best-in-class rates and service terms.
• Analyze market trends, competitor activity, and carrier capacity to make informed, strategic pricing decisions.
• Manage the company's rate database and ensure all pricing tools are accurate and up-to-date.
• Prepare complex and comprehensive quotes for multi-modal, project cargo, and dedicated customer solutions.
• Conduct post-quote analysis on won/lost business to continuously refine pricing tactics.

Operations Management (30%)

• Provide ultimate oversight for the operational execution of all shipments, ensuring compliance with customer SOPs and industry regulations.
• Lead, mentor, and manage the operations team, promoting a culture of high performance, customer service, and continuous improvement.
• Serve as the final point of escalation for critical customer issues, ensuring swift and effective resolution to maintain client satisfaction.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to enhance efficiency, scalability, and service quality.
• Manage key vendor and carrier relationships, holding them accountable for performance and negotiating service level agreements (SLAs).
• Monitor key operational performance metrics (KPIs) and implement corrective actions to improve on-time performance, accuracy, and cost control.
• Ensure full compliance with all international trade regulations.

Skills

Qualifications and Skills

Required:

• Bachelor's degree in Business, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7+ years of experiencein freight forwarding, withproven experience in business development/sales AND operations management.
• A verifiable track record of meeting or exceeding sales targets in the logistics industry.
• Deep expertise in pricing and negotiating complex international freight solutions (Air, Ocean FCL/LCL, Road).
• Strong financial acumen with experience in P&L management, margin analysis, and budgeting.
• Exceptional leadership skills with experience in hiring, training, and motivating a team.
• Outstanding communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding software (e.g., CargoWise One, Magaya) and CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot).
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, entrepreneurial environment wearing multiple hats.

Preferred:

• Existing portfolio of contacts and relationships with potential clients and carriers.
• Experience selling to specific industries (e.g., Aerospace, Automotive, Retail, Pharma).
• Experience with project logistics or special commodities.