At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare competitive Ocean Freight quotations and build strong relationships with partners.
- Company: Join Simarco, an award-winning logistics provider with a focus on global trade.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days leave, a pension scheme, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Diverse and inclusive workplace with excellent growth potential.
- Why this job: Make an impact in a fast-paced environment while developing your career in logistics.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in Ocean Freight forwarding and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Location: Ipswich/Felixstowe
Hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 5.30pm
Simarco is an award-winning international logistics provider, driven by a deep understanding of the fast-paced nature of global trade. We specialise in delivering bespoke freight solutions across the UK, Europe, and worldwide, offering flexible, fully tailored services that are designed to meet the unique needs of our clients.
Due to continued growth within our Ocean Freight division, we are looking for an experienced Ocean Freight Quotations Coordinator to join our commercial team. This is an exciting opportunity for an individual with strong Ocean Freight forwarding knowledge and a passion for delivering competitive pricing solutions whilst supporting business growth.
The successful candidate will play a key role in preparing accurate, competitive and profitable quotations for Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) shipments, with a primary focus on import opportunities from the Far East, Middle East and Mediterranean regions. Working closely with customers, shipping lines, overseas agents, suppliers, sales teams and operational departments, you will help secure new business opportunities, support customer retention and maximise quotation conversion through proactive follow-up and commercial awareness.
Key Skills and Qualifications:- Minimum 2 years' experience within an Ocean Freight forwarding environment.
- Experience preparing quotations for both FCL and LCL shipments.
- Strong understanding of Ocean Freight import operations.
- Knowledge of Ocean Freight markets, carrier services, transit times and international trade lanes.
- Commercially aware with the ability to balance competitiveness and profitability.
- Confident negotiating rates with shipping lines, NVOCCs, co-loaders, overseas agents and logistics partners.
- Strong analytical and numerical skills with excellent attention to detail.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Customer-focused with the ability to build and maintain strong working relationships.
- Experience following up quotations and converting opportunities into confirmed bookings.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Experience using freight forwarding, logistics or ERP systems.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- Self-motivated, proactive and able to work effectively both independently and as part of a team.
- Experience handling imports from the Far East, Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
- Knowledge of customs clearance procedures and UK import requirements.
- Experience working with overseas agent and partner networks.
- Freight forwarding, logistics or supply chain qualification.
- Experience using systems such as CargoWise, Boxtop or Azyra.
- Experience producing quotation conversion, performance or margin reports.
- Commercially minded and results focused.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Positive, professional and customer-focused approach.
- Confident communicator with excellent relationship‑building skills.
- Organised and able to prioritise workload effectively.
- Resilient and able to perform in a fast‑paced environment.
- Collaborative team player.
- Driven to identify opportunities and convert quotations into profitable business.
- Prepare accurate, competitive and profitable Ocean Freight quotations for FCL and LCL shipments.
- Focus primarily on import opportunities from the Far East, Middle East and Mediterranean regions.
- Source, negotiate and maintain competitive pricing with shipping lines, NVOCCs, co-loaders and overseas partners.
- Proactively follow up quotation opportunities to maximise conversion into confirmed bookings.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with carriers, overseas agents, co-loaders and partner network members.
- Support Ocean Freight, Commercial and Sales teams with pricing solutions, market intelligence and customer‑specific opportunities.
- Monitor market trends, carrier surcharges and industry developments to ensure quotations remain commercially viable.
- Maintain accurate quotation records, pricing data and customer information within company systems.
- Work closely with operational departments to ensure solutions are practical, achievable and customer focused.
- Take ownership of opportunities and contribute towards the continued growth and profitability of Simarco's Ocean Freight division.
- Deliver exceptional customer service whilst maintaining strong commercial awareness.
- Support wider departmental objectives and contribute positively to team success.
- A highly competitive salary.
- 25 days annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays.
- Company Pension Scheme.
- Discount platform – including top high street retailers.
- Full training and support.
- Cycle to Work & Tusker Car Scheme.
- Learning Management System for continuous learning.
- Mental health forum in place to support wellbeing.
- Simarco Stars – recognition & rewards programme.
- Career development opportunities within one of the UK's leading independent logistics providers.
Simarco International is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and a respectful working environment. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds, and we value the unique perspectives that a diverse workforce brings. We are driven by our core values of Integrity, Communication, Accountability, and Innovation, which influence how we work, collaborate, and grow as a business.
Ocean Freight Quotations Coordinator in Ipswich employer: Hollybank Trustees Ltd
Simarco is an exceptional employer located in Ipswich/Felixstowe, offering a dynamic work culture that prioritises employee growth and well-being. With a commitment to continuous learning, competitive salaries, and a supportive environment, employees are encouraged to thrive both personally and professionally. The company values diversity and fosters a collaborative atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in the logistics sector.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Ocean Freight Quotations Coordinator in Ipswich
✨Get Involved in Industry Events
Logistics and supply chain are all about networking, so hit up those trade shows and local meetups. Places like the UK's Logistics and Supply Chain conference can be goldmines for connecting with potential employers like Hollybank Trustees Ltd and learning about the latest trends in the industry.
✨Leverage Online Communities
Join forums and LinkedIn groups specifically for logistics professionals. Share your insights and ask questions to get noticed. Being active in these spaces can help you establish credibility and might just lead to an opportunity at Hollybank Trustees Ltd!
✨Showcase Your Skills with a Portfolio
Even if it’s a full-time gig, having a portfolio can really set you apart. Include case studies or projects that demonstrate your understanding of supply chain management, logistics software, or solving operational challenges. You’d be surprised at how much this can impress hiring managers.
✨Apply Directly Through Our Website
Don't forget the power of applying directly through our website! A lot of companies like Hollybank Trustees Ltd keep job postings exclusive to their sites. This way, you can easily keep track of your applications and ensure your profile is in front of the right people.
We think you need these skills to ace Ocean Freight Quotations Coordinator in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Supply Chain Savvy:In your CV and cover letter, make sure to highlight your understanding of logistics and supply chain management principles. Mention any relevant courses you've taken or tools you've used, like inventory management software or data analysis platforms, to showcase your skills and keep up with best practices in the industry.
Quantify Your Achievements:When detailing your previous work experience, remember to use numbers wherever possible. Did you improve delivery times by a specific percentage? Did you help reduce costs? These kinds of quantified achievements not only catch the eye but also demonstrate your capability in the logistics sector.
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Hollybank Trustees Ltd:This is your chance to really connect with the team at Hollybank Trustees Ltd. In your cover letter, express why you're passionate about supply chain logistics and how your goals align with the company’s mission. A little personalisation goes a long way!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to logistics or supply chain management—like APICS or Six Sigma—make sure you flaunt them! These show that you're committed to your professional development and can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Hollybank Trustees Ltd
✨Know Your Logistics Tools
Make sure you're familiar with key logistics software and tools like SAP or Oracle ERP. These are often used in the industry, and being able to demonstrate your knowledge or experience with them can really set you apart during your interview with Hollybank Trustees Ltd.
✨Perfect Your Problem-Solving Skills
Expect to tackle scenarios that showcase your problem-solving skills. Think about past experiences where you've had to optimise supply chains or handle logistics challenges. Have a few examples ready to discuss how you made decisions that led to improvements.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Supply chain roles heavily rely on teamwork and communication. Be prepared to discuss how you've collaborated with others in previous roles. Maybe share a time when you coordinated with a team to resolve a logistical hiccup. This can show Hollybank Trustees Ltd that you're a team player!
✨Understand the Big Picture
Be ready to talk about the broader logistics and supply chain trends. Having insights into current challenges in the industry, like sustainability or lead times, can impress the interviewers at Hollybank Trustees Ltd. Show them you’re not just focused on the day-to-day but also have a strategic mindset!
