Trade Manager

We have been retained by our client, a large SME global Freight Forwarder with huge growth plans, to recruit an experienced Ocean Freight Pricing Specialist to become their Trade Manager. Using cutting-edge technology and driven by passionate people, our client delivers world-class import/export solutions across air, ocean, and road freight, as well as supply chain management and specialist services in retail, manufacturing, automotive and chemical sectors amongst others.

We’re looking for a customer-focused Trade Manager to join their high-performing team based at the Birmingham Business Park HQ. If you thrive in a fast-paced environment, love solving problems, and want to be part of a company that values innovation and growth - this is your next career move.

What You’ll Be Doing

• As a key leader within the Trade & Commercial team, you will drive strategic partnerships with customers, carriers, and suppliers, leveraging your expertise to negotiate competitive agreements and shape pricing strategies that maximize profitability and market share.
• Lead strategic procurement initiatives across RFQs, long-term rate agreements, and pricing frameworks to secure competitive positioning and profitability.
• Own carrier negotiations and relationship management, building strategic partnerships that deliver long-term value and align with business objectives.
• Define and maintain the company’s pricing structure, ensuring consistency and market competitiveness across all trade lanes.
• Develop and implement operational routing strategies aligned with commercial objectives, optimising trade flows and cost efficiency.
• Provide operational teams with clear carrier options and routing guidance, enabling efficient and cost-effective bookings.
• Support Key Account Directors (KAD) and Key Account Managers (KAM) with tailored trade solutions and actionable commercial insights.
• Ensure compliance with company pricing guidelines, maintaining accuracy and alignment with strategic goals.
• Strengthen supplier and carrier partnerships through high-level negotiations, fostering collaboration and long-term value creation.
• Enhance organisational capacity and resilience to support future growth and market leadership following recent team changes.
• Champion continuous improvement by leveraging data insights and market intelligence to refine procurement processes and drive margin improvement.

What You’ll Bring

• Industry and operational knowledge of Ocean / Sea freight - inbound, outbound, and cross trade.
• An understanding of how to influence profitability through effective pricing is preferred.
• Proven ability to deliver high-quality service at a senior level.
• A sharp eye for detail and understanding of its commercial impact.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Strong numerical and commercial acumen.
• Excellent communication skills—both written and verbal. Experience communicating with external stakeholders and suppliers is preferred.
• Confidence using Microsoft Office and Windows systems (Cargowise experience is a plus).
• A proactive, team-oriented mindset with great time management.
• Enthusiasm, flexibility, and self-motivation.

Rewards

• Discretionary bi-annual bonus – because your success drives the success of the company.
• Health & wellness perks – including gym discounts, retail offers, and more.
• Health cash plan – supporting your wellbeing.
• Octopus EV car scheme – drive electric, drive smart.
• Free parking – no stress, no cost.
• Respectful, inclusive culture – where your voice matters.
• Training & development – grow with us, every step of the way.

Plus, You’ll Enjoy:

• Career Mobility & Growth – our client actively promotes from within and offers clear pathways to progress into senior roles or to explore other departments.
• Cross-Training Opportunities – Expand your skillset by working across different freight modes and supply chain functions.
• Fast-Paced, High-Impact Work – Be part of a team that thrives on energy, agility, and delivering results under pressure.
• Make a Global Impact – Help major international brands deliver on time, every time - your work keeps global supply chains moving.
• Tech-Driven Efficiency – Work with industry-leading systems like Cargowise and MVT to streamline operations and reduce manual tasks.

Apply directly with your CV for an initial conversation - we have been retained by the organisation as their trusted recruitment partner, and can support you through the process to success.