At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop freight forwarding operations while driving business growth.
- Company: Established logistics company with a strong reputation in the industry.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, and long-term career progression.
- Other info: Enjoy autonomy and support from a financially secure organisation.
- Why this job: Take ownership of a business unit and make a real impact with your ideas.
- Qualifications: Extensive freight forwarding experience and proven leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 £ per year.
Location: London / South East
Position: Permanent
Start Date: ASAP
Salary: Competitive + Bonus (DOE)
About the Role
Our client, a well‑established and highly regarded Freight Forwarding and Logistics company, is seeking to appoint an experienced General Manager to lead and further develop their UK operation. This is a rare opportunity for a commercially driven individual to take full ownership of a business unit, with the autonomy to shape strategy, drive growth, and build a high‑performing team. You will benefit from the support, infrastructure, and financial backing of an established organisation, whilst operating with a high level of independence. This role would suit someone with a strong entrepreneurial mindset who is looking to make a genuine impact. There is scope to introduce new ideas, develop additional revenue streams, and even build out your own division within the business, all whilst managing and strengthening the existing operation. Candidates who are able to bring business with them or have a strong network will be particularly well received.
Main Responsibilities
- Oversee the day‑to‑day management of freight forwarding operations across air, sea, and road
- Lead, motivate, and develop both operational and commercial teams
- Drive business growth through new client acquisition and development of existing accounts
- Identify and implement strategic initiatives to expand market presence
- Take full responsibility for P&L, budgeting, and overall financial performance
- Ensure operational efficiency, service excellence, and continuous improvement
- Maintain compliance with industry regulations, including customs procedures
- Work closely with senior stakeholders to align business objectives and long‑term strategy
About You
- Extensive experience within freight forwarding (air, sea, and/or road)
- Proven track record in a senior leadership or General Management role
- Strong commercial acumen with experience in business development and growth
- Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to bring fresh ideas and drive change
- Confident leader with strong people management and team development skills
- Solid understanding of customs processes and end‑to‑end logistics operations
- Hands‑on, proactive, and results‑driven approach
What's on Offer
- Opportunity to lead and grow a business unit with real autonomy
- Ability to shape the direction and long‑term success of the operation
- Backing of an established and financially secure organisation
- Long‑term career progression opportunities
- Competitive salary and performance‑related bonus
Freight Forwarder General Manager employer: Red Recruits
Contact Detail:
Red Recruits Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Freight Forwarder General Manager
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the freight forwarding industry. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your experience and achievements in freight forwarding. We want to see how you’ve driven growth and led teams in the past. Bring those success stories to life!
✨Be Ready to Discuss Strategy
Prepare to talk about your vision for the role and how you plan to drive business growth. We’re looking for candidates who can think strategically and bring fresh ideas to the table. Show us you’re ready to take ownership and make an impact!
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Freight Forwarder General Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the General Manager role. Highlight your experience in freight forwarding and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this position. Share specific examples of how you've driven growth or led teams in the past. We love a good story that showcases your entrepreneurial mindset!
Showcase Your Network: If you have a strong network or can bring business with you, make sure to mention it in your application. This could set you apart from other candidates. We’re keen on seeing how you can leverage your connections to benefit our operations.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Red Recruits
✨Know Your Freight Forwarding Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of freight forwarding operations, including air, sea, and road logistics. Be prepared to discuss specific examples from your past experience that demonstrate your expertise in managing these areas.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a General Manager, you'll need to lead and motivate teams. Think of instances where you've successfully developed teams or driven change. Be ready to share how you’ve fostered a high-performing culture and what strategies you used to keep your team engaged.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Acumen
This role requires a strong focus on business growth. Prepare to discuss your experience with client acquisition and account development. Bring along ideas for potential new revenue streams or strategic initiatives that could benefit the company.
✨Understand the Financials
Since you'll be responsible for P&L and budgeting, make sure you can talk confidently about financial performance. Brush up on key metrics and be ready to explain how you've managed budgets in the past and improved operational efficiency.