At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage key ocean freight accounts and develop tailored logistics solutions.
- Company: Join a leading global logistics provider focused on innovation and customer service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, commission structure, and continuous training for career growth.
- Other info: Thriving environment with opportunities to adapt and grow in a fast-paced industry.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team shaping the future of global shipping.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in account management within ocean freight; strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
About the job
Reports to: Director of Key Accounts
Department: Sales / Key Account Management
Freight Force Recruitment Ltd are acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this permanent vacancy. The Company Freight Force are working in partnership with a leading provider of global logistics solutions, offering end-to-end services for supply chain optimisation. Specialising in freight forwarding, customs brokerage, warehousing, and distribution, with a strong focus on delivering efficient and cost-effective solutions to our clients.
Role Overview
We are seeking a dynamic and results‑driven Key Account Manager specialising in ocean freight to join an expanding sales team. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing and growing key client relationships within the ocean freight sector, ensuring the highest levels of service and satisfaction. You will work closely with internal teams to provide tailored logistics solutions that meet clients' needs while maximising revenue opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Account Management: Serve as the main point of contact for key ocean freight accounts, developing and maintaining long‑term relationships. Understand clients' business objectives and provide strategic logistics solutions that align with their needs. Monitor customer satisfaction and address issues in a timely and effective manner.
- Business Development: Identify opportunities for expanding services with existing clients, driving account growth through upselling and cross‑selling additional services. Develop and implement account‑specific strategies to increase revenue, improve service delivery, and enhance customer loyalty. Lead negotiations on ocean freight contracts, including rates, terms, and conditions, ensuring competitive pricing and service offerings.
- Operations Coordination: Collaborate with internal teams, including operations, customer service, and logistics, to ensure timely and efficient execution of ocean freight shipments. Monitor shipment performance and resolve any operational issues to maintain smooth service delivery.
- Reporting & Analysis: Prepare and deliver regular reports on account performance, including KPIs, shipping volumes, revenue, and profitability. Analyse market trends and competitor activity to ensure that services are competitive and aligned with market demand. Stay up to date with industry trends, regulations, and best practices in the ocean freight and logistics sectors. Provide insights and recommendations to clients on optimising their supply chains and reducing shipping costs.
Key Requirements:
- Experience: Minimum of 2 years of experience in a key account management role, specifically within the ocean freight/logistics industry. Strong understanding of ocean freight operations, including shipping terms (Incoterms), vessel scheduling, port operations, and customs clearance.
- Skills: Excellent negotiation and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain relationships at all levels of client organisations. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills, with the ability to use data to inform decision‑making. Ability to manage multiple high‑value accounts and prioritise tasks effectively. Proficiency in Cargo wise FMS and MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word).
- Qualifications: Industry certifications (e.g., FIATA, IATA, etc.) are a plus.
- Personal Attributes: Strong customer orientation with a focus on delivering exceptional service. Self‑motivated, driven by results, and capable of working independently and as part of a team. Ability to thrive in a fast‑paced, dynamic environment and adapt to changing market conditions.
Why join this company?
- Growth Opportunities: The company are committed to the professional development of our employees and offer continuous training and career progression.
- Competitive Salary: Attractive salary and commission structure based on performance.
- Innovative Environment: Work with a team that values creativity, innovation, and forward‑thinking solutions in global logistics.
Key Account Manager - Ocean Freight in Leeds employer: Freight Force Recruitment
Freight Force Recruitment Ltd is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Leeds where employees can thrive in the logistics sector. With a strong focus on professional development and training, the company fosters a culture of growth and collaboration, ensuring that every team member has the opportunity to enhance their skills while contributing to meaningful projects. The supportive atmosphere and commitment to employee well-being make it an attractive place for those seeking a rewarding career in freight forwarding.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Key Account Manager - Ocean Freight in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to industry contacts on LinkedIn or attend local logistics events. Building relationships can open doors to opportunities that aren’t even advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Show them you know your stuff about ocean freight and how you can add value to their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their needs. Highlight your successes in account management and how you’ve driven growth in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Key Account Manager - Ocean Freight in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Key Account Manager role in ocean freight. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the job description, especially your account management and logistics expertise.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed key accounts and driven growth in the past.
Showcase Your Industry Knowledge:We want to see that you understand the ocean freight industry. Mention any relevant certifications or experiences that demonstrate your knowledge of shipping terms, vessel scheduling, and customs clearance.
Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Freight Force Recruitment
✨Know Your Ocean Freight Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of ocean freight operations, including shipping terms and customs clearance. Being able to speak confidently about these topics will show that you understand the industry and can provide valuable insights to clients.
✨Showcase Your Relationship-Building Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed key accounts in the past. Highlight your ability to build long-term relationships and how you've addressed client needs effectively. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role and your commitment to customer satisfaction.
✨Be Ready to Discuss Business Development Strategies
Think about ways you've identified growth opportunities in previous roles. Be prepared to discuss specific strategies you've implemented to upsell or cross-sell services. This will show that you're proactive and results-driven, which is crucial for a Key Account Manager.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Since negotiation is a key part of the role, practice discussing rates and terms. Think of scenarios where you've successfully negotiated contracts in the past. This will help you convey your negotiation skills and your ability to secure competitive pricing for clients.
