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- Tasks: Drive strategic partnerships and negotiate competitive agreements in logistics.
- Company: Join Metro, a leader in innovative logistics solutions.
- Benefits: Enjoy health perks, training, career growth, and a bi-annual bonus.
- Why this job: Make a global impact while working with cutting-edge technology.
- Qualifications: Passion for logistics and strong numerical skills required.
- Other info: Opportunities for cross-training and career mobility within the company.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join Metro – Where Innovation Meets Logistics Excellence. At Metro, we don’t just move freight - we move boundaries. Powered by cutting-edge technology and driven by passionate people, we deliver 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 our high-performing team based at our Birmingham Business Park HQ.
As a key leader within our 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.
- Develop and implement operational routing strategies aligned with commercial objectives, optimising trade flows and cost efficiency.
- Support Key Account Directors (KAD) and Key Account Managers (KAM) with tailored trade solutions and actionable commercial insights.
- Strengthen supplier and carrier partnerships through high-level negotiations, fostering collaboration and long-term value creation.
- Champion continuous improvement by leveraging data insights and market intelligence to refine procurement processes and drive margin improvement.
We’re looking for someone who’s not just experienced, but passionate about logistics:
- Industry and operational knowledge of Ocean freight - inbound, outbound, and cross trade.
- Proven ability to deliver high-quality service at a senior level.
- A sharp eye for detail and understanding of its commercial impact.
- Strong numerical and commercial acumen.
- Confidence using Microsoft Office and Windows systems (Cargowise experience is a plus).
Additional benefits include:
- Discretionary bi-annual bonus – because your success drives ours.
- 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.
- Training & development – grow with us, every step of the way.
- Career Mobility & Growth – We actively promote from within and offer clear pathways to progress into senior roles or explore other departments.
- Cross-Training Opportunities – Expand your skillset by working across different freight modes and supply chain functions.
- 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.
Shipping - Trade Manager in Birmingham employer: Metro
Contact Detail:
Metro Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Shipping - Trade Manager in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the logistics industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Metro and its competitors. Understand their services, values, and recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your negotiation skills! As a Trade Manager, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to negotiate effectively. Role-play scenarios with friends or family to build confidence and refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining Metro and ready to contribute to our innovative logistics solutions.
We think you need these skills to ace Shipping - Trade Manager in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV speaks directly to the Trade Manager role. Highlight your experience in logistics, especially with ocean freight, and showcase any relevant achievements that demonstrate your ability to drive strategic partnerships and negotiate effectively.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for logistics and how your skills align with our mission at Metro. Don’t forget to mention specific examples of how you’ve delivered high-quality service in previous roles.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since we value data-driven decision-making, make sure to highlight your numerical and commercial acumen. Share instances where you've used data insights to improve processes or drive profitability in your previous positions.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly 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 you’re keen on joining our team at Metro!
How to prepare for a job interview at Metro
✨Know Your Logistics Inside Out
Before the interview, brush up on your knowledge of ocean freight and the specific logistics processes relevant to the role. Understand the nuances of inbound, outbound, and cross trade operations, as well as how they impact profitability and market share.
✨Showcase Your Negotiation Skills
Prepare examples of past negotiations you've led, particularly in securing competitive agreements or building strategic partnerships. Be ready to discuss your approach and the outcomes, as this will demonstrate your ability to drive value for the company.
✨Be Data-Driven
Familiarise yourself with how data insights can refine procurement processes. Think of instances where you've used data to improve operational efficiency or drive margin improvement, and be prepared to share these during the interview.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion
Metro is looking for someone who is not just experienced but also passionate about logistics. Share your enthusiasm for the industry and how it motivates you to deliver high-quality service. This will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're a great fit for their team.