At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage shipping line accounts and support customer relationships in a dynamic port environment.
- Company: Hutchison Ports – the UK's largest deep-water container port.
- Benefits: Life assurance, profit share bonuses, wellbeing support, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Join a diverse team committed to inclusion and community engagement.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in commercial management with real business exposure and growth opportunities.
- Qualifications: Customer-facing experience, strong analytical skills, and proficiency in Microsoft Office.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Hutchison Ports – Port of Felixstowe is the UK’s largest deep‑water container port and a key gateway for global trade. We are looking for a Graduate Commercial Manager to join our Commercial team, offering a valuable opportunity to build a career in a fast‑paced, customer‑focused port environment.
In this role, you’ll work across a portfolio of shipping line customers, supporting the management of key accounts while developing an understanding of the wider supply chain and end‑user sectors. You’ll gain exposure to commercial decision‑making, customer relationship management, data analysis and business development activities, building the skills and experience needed for a long‑term career in commercial management.
Working closely with colleagues across the business, you will play a key role in supporting customer relationships, responding to enquiries, analysing performance data and contributing to projects and commercial initiatives.
Our Benefits – Supporting your career, wellbeing and future
- Life Assurance for pension scheme members
- Annual profit share bonus and performance‑related bonus
- Employee Assistance Programme (EAP): confidential counselling, wellbeing and financial support
- Occupational Health and wellbeing services
- Paid leave, enhanced sick pay and family‑friendly policies
- Volunteering opportunities within the local community
- Perkbox discounts and wellbeing resources
- Structured early‑career development within a commercial environment
- Exposure to real business projects and customer account management
- Opportunities to grow your career within the Commercial function
Role Overview
Key responsibilities
- Support the management of shipping line accounts, working directly with customers on day‑to‑day queries and relationship building.
- Identify and report on new business opportunities, using market insights, external contacts and industry information.
- Prepare customer presentations, reports and commercial analysis to support meetings and decision‑making.
- Produce accurate statistical and analytical data, supporting reporting, performance monitoring and business insights.
- Work closely with internal departments to ensure customer expectations are met and service delivery is aligned.
- Provide customer quotes, considering relevant commercial information to support business outcomes.
- Support marketing initiatives and contribute to continuous improvement in service delivery.
- Build knowledge of market trends, competitors, shipping networks and customer requirements.
- Represent the business at meetings, industry events and stakeholder forums where required.
What you need
- At least 1 year’s experience in a customer‑facing environment.
- Strong analytical skills and confidence working with data and reporting.
- Good knowledge of Microsoft Office, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
- Ability to communicate effectively and present information clearly to different audiences.
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines.
- A proactive, self‑motivated approach with a willingness to learn and develop.
- Flexibility to travel within the UK and Europe when required.
Inclusion & Community
We are committed to creating an inclusive and supportive workplace where everyone can thrive. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and value the different perspectives that early‑career professionals bring. We are proud to hold Chartered Status from Women in Maritime, and our Diversity & Inclusion committee supports employee networks including Women’s Network, PRIDE, Early Careers, Veterans & Reserves, Disability and Culture groups.
Graduate Commercial Manager in Felixstowe employer: Hutchison Ports (UK)
Hutchison Ports – Port of Felixstowe is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and supportive work environment that prioritises employee growth and wellbeing. With a strong benefits package, including life assurance, performance-related bonuses, and opportunities for community engagement, we foster a culture of inclusivity and professional development. As a Graduate Commercial Manager, you will gain invaluable experience in a fast-paced port setting, working closely with diverse teams and building meaningful customer relationships, all while contributing to the UK's largest deep-water container port.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Commercial Manager in Felixstowe
✨Get Involved in Local Logistics Events
Keep an eye out for local logistics conferences and networking events. These are great places to meet professionals in the field, build connections, and hear about entry-level opportunities directly from hiring managers. Plus, they often have guest speakers who can give you inside info on what companies like Hutchison Ports (UK) are looking for!
✨Join Online Communities and Forums
Dive into online logistics communities, like LinkedIn groups or industry-specific forums. We can learn a ton from discussions about trends, challenges, and latest technologies. Being an active member can put you on the radar of recruiters from companies like Hutchison Ports (UK) who are looking for fresh talent!
✨Utilise Career Services at Uni
If you’re a recent grad or still in school, don’t overlook your university’s career services. They often have connections with local businesses and might know about entry-level roles at places like Hutchison Ports (UK) before they hit the job boards. Plus, they can help you polish your interview skills!
✨Keep Your Application Sharp and Ready
When applying for entry-level positions, make sure your application is tailored for each role at Hutchison Ports (UK). Highlight any relevant coursework, internships, or part-time jobs that show off your logistics know-how. And remember, applying through our website gives you a better chance of landing that sweet entry-level gig!
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Commercial Manager in Felixstowe
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Coursework:When applying for an entry-level position in logistics and supply chain, make sure to mention any related coursework or projects from your studies. This could showcase your understanding of key concepts and give us a glimpse of how you've applied your knowledge practically.
Emphasise Attention to Detail:Logistics relies heavily on precision and attention to detail. In your CV or cover letter, share examples of times when your carefulness made a difference — think about any internships or group projects where these skills were essential. It’s a big plus for us at Hutchison Ports (UK)!
Show Your Eagerness to Learn:As this is an entry-level position, we want to know you’re keen to develop your skills. In your cover letter, express your motivation to grow in the logistics field and mention any relevant online courses, certifications, or workshops you've completed. We love a proactive candidate!
Use Clear and Structured Documents:Make sure your CV and cover letter are clear and well-organised. Logistics involves a lot of process management, so demonstrating your ability to communicate information succinctly can set you apart. Align your documents to be as straightforward and to-the-point as possible to make a great impression on us at Hutchison Ports (UK).
How to prepare for a job interview at Hutchison Ports (UK)
✨Know Your Supply Chain Basics
Brush up on fundamental concepts of logistics and supply chain management. We might get questions about inventory management, distribution channels, and transport methods, so be ready to explain these concepts in simple terms. This will show that you’ve got a solid foundation and are keen to learn more!
✨Familiarise with Relevant Software
Get comfortable with logistics management tools like SAP or Oracle Transportation Management. Even if the role is entry-level, showing that you have a basic understanding of these systems can set you apart from other candidates. We can look up tutorials or demos online to help us get a grip on these platforms!
✨Show Enthusiasm for Learning
As this is an entry-level role, companies like Hutchison Ports (UK) are likely looking for potential and passion over extensive experience. Be ready to discuss why you’re excited about starting a career in logistics and how eager you are to learn on the job. Share any relevant coursework or projects from your studies that sparked your interest.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Interviewers in logistics often ask about how we would handle specific challenges, like inventory shortages or delivery delays. Think about scenarios you’ve encountered (even in projects) and how you would solve them. We want to demonstrate our problem-solving skills and ability to manage stress during these discussions!
