At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow a high-performing sales team in sea freight exports.
- Company: Dynamic freight forwarding company with a focus on international growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, uncapped bonuses, car allowance, and long-term incentives.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for personal and professional development.
- Why this job: Drive strategic growth and make a significant impact in the freight industry.
- Qualifications: Proven sales leadership experience in freight forwarding and strong sea freight knowledge.
The predicted salary is between 80000 - 100000 € per year.
We are seeking a commercially driven Sales Director with a specialist focus on sea freight export to lead and grow a high-performing sales function. This individual will be responsible for driving strategic growth, securing key accounts, and expanding market share across international ocean freight export services. The role requires a strong blend of leadership, hands-on business development, and deep operational understanding of export freight forwarding.
Key Responsibilities
- Sales Leadership & Strategy
- Develop and execute a sales strategy focused on sea freight export growth across key trade lanes.
- Lead, mentor and develop an existing team of Business Development Managers and Account Managers.
- Drive a high-performance sales culture with clear KPIs, targets, and accountability.
- Collaborate with senior leadership on revenue forecasting and growth planning.
- Business Development
- Identify and secure large-scale export opportunities, including major BCOs and contract logistics customers.
- Build strong relationships with shipping lines, NVOCCs, and global agents.
- Maintain an active personal pipeline and lead from the front on strategic deals.
- Expand presence in key verticals (Retail, FMCG, Automotive, Industrial, etc.).
- Commercial Management
- Own pricing strategy in collaboration with procurement and operations.
- Lead negotiations on complex RFQs, tenders, and global contracts.
- Ensure profitable growth through effective margin management.
- Customer & Market Focus
- Develop and maintain key account relationships at senior level.
- Monitor market trends, carrier capacity, and rate movements to stay competitive.
- Position the business as a trusted partner for export solutions.
- Internal Collaboration
- Work closely with operations to ensure service delivery excellence.
- Partner with product, air/road divisions, and overseas offices for integrated solutions.
- Support M&A or growth initiatives where required.
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven track record in a senior sales leadership role within freight forwarding.
- Strong sea freight export knowledge.
- Demonstrated success in winning and growing large accounts.
- Experience managing and developing sales teams.
- Deep understanding of:
- Export documentation & compliance
- Ocean freight pricing structures
- Global trade lanes (Europe, Asia, Americas, etc.)
- Strong network across carriers, clients, and agents.
Key Competencies
- Commercially astute and results-driven.
- Strategic thinker with hands-on approach.
- Strong leadership and people development skills.
- Excellent negotiation and influencing ability.
- High level of resilience and accountability.
Package
- Competitive base salary
- Uncapped bonus / commission structure
- Car allowance benefits
- Long-term incentives (for senior hires, where applicable)
Locations
Sales Director - Freight Forwarding in Leeds, Yorkshire employer: Headford Group
As a leading player in the freight forwarding industry, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to excel. With a focus on professional development and a commitment to strategic growth, our Sales Director will have the opportunity to lead a high-performing team while enjoying competitive compensation, uncapped bonuses, and a flexible working environment across the UK. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the world of sea freight exports and advance your career in a supportive and innovative setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Sales Director - Freight Forwarding in Leeds, Yorkshire
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and connect with people in the freight forwarding space. The more you engage, the better your chances of landing that Sales Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a personal brand on LinkedIn by sharing insights about sea freight exports and engaging with others in the industry. This will help you stand out to potential employers.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its competitors. Be ready to discuss how you can drive growth and secure key accounts in their specific market. We want to see your strategic thinking in action!
✨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 Sales Director - Freight Forwarding in Leeds, Yorkshire
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your experience in sea freight exports and sales leadership. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your achievements in similar positions.
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 the Sales Director role. Share specific examples of how you've driven growth and secured key accounts in the past.
Showcase Your Network:We love seeing candidates who have a strong network in the freight forwarding industry. Mention any relationships you have with shipping lines, NVOCCs, or global agents that could benefit our team.
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 us you’re keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Headford Group
✨Know Your Sea Freight Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of sea freight export processes, pricing structures, and global trade lanes. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show that you’re not just a sales leader but also someone who understands the intricacies of the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership approach and how you've successfully developed sales teams in the past. Think of specific examples where you’ve driven performance and accountability, as this role requires strong people management skills.
✨Demonstrate Your Business Development Skills
Be ready to share your strategies for identifying and securing large-scale export opportunities. Discuss your experience with major BCOs and how you’ve built relationships with shipping lines and global agents to expand market share.
✨Prepare for Negotiation Scenarios
Since the role involves leading negotiations on complex RFQs and tenders, think of past negotiation experiences where you achieved profitable outcomes. Be prepared to discuss your approach to pricing strategy and margin management, as this will be crucial for the company’s growth.
