At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in freight forwarding, managing operations and ensuring top-notch customer service.
- Company: Join a market-leading multi-modal freight forwarder with a global presence and ambitious growth plans.
- Benefits: Enjoy 32 days annual leave, uncapped bonuses, car allowance, and private family healthcare.
- Why this job: Be part of a fast-paced environment, making a real impact in logistics for major global clients.
- Qualifications: 5+ years in freight forwarding with experience managing large teams and operations.
- Other info: Opportunity for significant career progression and professional development in Birmingham.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 84000 £ per year.
We are actively looking to engage managerial professionals across an air, sea and road background with a passion for freight forwarding and aviation shipping for a new role as a Freight General Manager in Birmingham, West Midlands. My client is searching to provide large scale investment to increase their current freight forwarding offerings in the Midlands. The business is a market-leader in a multi-modal freight forwarder, their operation has offices based across the world (in Asia-Pacific, Far-East, the Americas and Europe). You will be joining a fast-paced environment assisting in finding logistics solutions for some of the world's largest industrial, retail & FMCG based customers. My client focuses on providing freight forwarding solutions across UK & European road freight, air freight and sea freight.
As a Freight General Manager, you will report to the Managing Director on a daily basis. You will have full responsibility for the new site at Birmingham, West Midlands along with the following areas:
- Manage a fast-paced, growing operation of circa 30-45 air & ocean freight import and export specialists who are responsible for bookings including pricing, quotations, end-to-end shipping and customs documentation.
- Manage a small customs and documentation team responsible for customs clearance, booking, BL, pre-alerts, etc.
- Full branch/site P&L responsibility including HR development and staff training, alongside RTW, 1-2-1's and appraisals of a direct and indirect team of colleagues.
- Help create and update a rate matrix (along with the commercial team) for nominating carriers, hauliers, shipping lines, airlines and GSA in-line with rates, OTIF value and customer requirements in line with a variety of INCOTerms.
- Develop a 'best in service' relationship offering to ensure high levels of customer service are provided by the branch to a mixed client base.
- Top-level customer rate analysis on route guidance, whilst monitoring and securing allocations and operational efficiency.
The successful candidate will have an expansive background in freight forwarding across both import and export. The ideal Freight General Manager will have the following skills and experience:
- 5+ years experience in freight forwarding in either air, sea or road freight forwarding.
- Experience of managing teams of 25+ colleagues across freight forwarding, customs, and commercial development.
- History of leading and managing freight operations involving pricing, quotation and planning customer deliveries across road, air & sea freight.
- Desirable experience of managing teams of customs compliance operators.
- Proven history of developing freight forwarding commercial accounts.
- Commutable to Birmingham on a daily basis.
What's On Offer?
- 32 days annual leave.
- Branch bonus linked to profit which is uncapped.
- Car allowance of between £6k-£8k.
- Comprehensive company benefits account.
- Private family healthcare.
- Large opportunities to progress knowledge and job banding to a senior level.
Freight General Manager employer: JR United Kingdom
Contact Detail:
JR United Kingdom Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Freight General Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the freight forwarding industry, especially those who have experience in air, sea, and road logistics. Attend industry events or join relevant online forums to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and challenges in the field.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the company thoroughly before your interview. Understand their operations, values, and recent developments in the freight forwarding sector. This knowledge will help you tailor your responses and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples from your past experience that showcase your leadership skills and ability to manage teams effectively. Highlight instances where you improved operational efficiency or customer service, as these are key aspects of the Freight General Manager role.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest technologies and software used in freight forwarding and logistics management. Being knowledgeable about tools that enhance efficiency and compliance can set you apart from other candidates and show your commitment to staying current in the industry.
We think you need these skills to ace Freight General Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in freight forwarding, particularly in air, sea, and road logistics. Emphasise any managerial roles you've held and the size of teams you've managed.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for freight forwarding and your understanding of the industry. Mention specific achievements in previous roles that demonstrate your ability to manage operations and lead teams effectively.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, focus on skills that are crucial for the Freight General Manager role, such as P&L responsibility, customs compliance, and customer service excellence. Use examples to illustrate how you've successfully applied these skills in past positions.
Showcase Your Leadership Experience: Detail your experience in leading teams, especially those involved in freight operations. Discuss your approach to HR development, training, and performance appraisals, as these are key responsibilities for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at JR United Kingdom
✨Showcase Your Freight Forwarding Expertise
Make sure to highlight your extensive experience in freight forwarding, especially in air, sea, and road logistics. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully managed operations and teams in these areas.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Freight General Manager, you'll be leading a team of specialists. Share your experiences in managing teams, focusing on how you've developed staff, conducted appraisals, and fostered a positive work environment.
✨Understand the Business's Needs
Research the company and its current operations in Birmingham. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their growth and improve customer service levels, particularly in relation to their multi-modal freight forwarding offerings.
✨Prepare for P&L Discussions
Since you'll have full P&L responsibility, brush up on your financial acumen. Be prepared to discuss how you've managed budgets in the past and how you plan to ensure profitability while maintaining high service standards.