Operations Manager - Customs & Brokerage

Overview

Operations Manager – Customs & Brokerage

As the Operations Manager for Customs and Brokerage, you will lead and oversee the daily operations of all brokerage, transit, customs, and non-transportation services in the UK. This role requires a customer-focused, proactive individual with excellent stakeholder engagement skills to ensure seamless compliance, operational efficiency, and exceptional client support. You will manage a diverse, dynamic team and work closely with internal teams, external partners, and clients to deliver best-in-class brokerage solutions. Our business is a 24/7 operation; varied working shifts are part of all roles within DANX Carousel group.

Location & Contract

• Location: Birmingham – Hybrid working arrangement.
• Contract: Full Time, 40 hours per week. Permanent – Monday-Friday.

Responsibilities

• Operational Leadership: Manage day-to-day customs, brokerage, transit, and non-transportation services operations, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and accuracy.
• Team Management: Lead, develop, and motivate a team of up to 10 specialists, fostering a high-performance culture.
• Client Support & Engagement: Act as a primary point of contact for clients, providing expert support on customs and brokerage queries and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction.
• Stakeholder Management: Build and maintain strong relationships with internal teams, external customs authorities, freight forwarders, and clients.
• Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure all operations adhere to UK customs regulations, import/export controls, and company policies, and manage any associated risks.
• Process Optimization: Continuously review and improve operational workflows to maximize efficiency and reduce errors.
• Reporting & Metrics: Monitor key performance indicators, prepare operational reports, and support strategic decision-making.
• Travel & On-site Support: Support and participate in client visits, audits, or operational meetings as needed, with travel within the UK and occasionally to mainland Europe.
• Hybrid Working Coordination: Balance remote management with on-site oversight from Birmingham, ensuring team productivity and engagement.

Qualifications & Skills

• Proven experience (minimum 5 years) in customs brokerage, freight forwarding, or logistics operations management.
• Strong knowledge of UK customs procedures, import/export regulations, and transit processes.
• Experience managing small teams in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience of introducing automation in day-to-day processes.
• Experience within core logistics operations environment including Cross Border activity.
• Excellent stakeholder management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to handle complex operational challenges and solve problems proactively.
• Proficiency with customs software, TMS, or similar systems.
• Customer-centric mindset with a focus on delivering high-quality service.
• Flexibility to travel within the UK and potentially to European locations.

Qualifications

• Industry-recognized qualification from a relevant logistics/trade/customs organisation.
• Demonstrated experience with customs compliance, transit operations, and non-transport brokerage services.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills.

Our Values

• Caring: We foster a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone\’s voice is heard and valued.
• Ownership: We empower team members to make impactful decisions and drive meaningful change.
• Learning: We encourage curiosity and provide opportunities for professional development.

Carousel Logistics is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Seniority level

• Mid-Senior level

Employment type

• Full-time

Job function

• Management and Manufacturing

Industries

• Transportation, Logistics, Supply Chain and Storage