At The Cardinal Partnership, we're not just a company; we're a partnership in both name and nature. As the world's largest employee-owned logistics organisation, we proudly house two beloved brands, Cardinal Global Logistics and Far Logistics. When you join our team, you become a partner in our collective success.
People have always been at the heart of what we do and we have an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit that has transformed a modest £15,000 investment into an industry-leading enterprise. We tailor these services to meet the precise needs of our 6000+ customers.
Join us in providing exceptional service and shaping the next chapter of our partnership journey. In return, you'll enjoy a competitive salary and enhanced benefits.
We are looking for a Road Freight Manager to join our growing team in Far Logistics Manchester!
The Road Freight Manager is responsible for the overall management, performance, profitability and strategic development of the Road Freight division. The role provides leadership across operational teams, drives commercial growth and ensures the delivery of high-quality, compliant and cost-effective road freight solutions. Working closely with customers, suppliers, sales teams and operational stakeholders, the Road Freight Manager is accountable for service excellence, customer satisfaction, financial performance and the continued growth of the Road Freight product across the business.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Road Freight function, ensuring operational excellence, service quality and business growth across all locations.
- Develop and implement Road Freight strategies aligned with company objectives and long-term growth plans.
- Drive growth across domestic and international road freight services, identifying opportunities to increase revenue, profitability and market share.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, carriers, overseas partners and key stakeholders.
- Work closely with Sales, Customer Experience and Operations teams to maximise commercial opportunities and customer retention.
- Support customer onboarding activities, ensuring a smooth transition from sales through to operational delivery.
- Monitor customer requirements, service performance and operational standards, implementing improvements where required.
- Ensure all road freight shipments are managed efficiently, accurately and in line with company procedures, customer expectations and regulatory requirements.
- Identify and develop new products, service solutions and market opportunities to strengthen the Road Freight offering.
- Monitor market trends, carrier developments and industry activity to maintain competitiveness and identify growth opportunities.
- Select and manage carriers, suppliers and service providers to ensure service excellence and profitability.
- Promote continuous improvement initiatives, reviewing processes, systems and workflows to increase efficiency and service performance.
- Work collaboratively with Customs, Finance and Operational teams to ensure compliance, operational efficiency and service continuity.
- Represent the Road Freight division at operational, financial and management meetings and contribute to wider business initiatives.
Behavioural Competencies
- Positive, proactive and commercially focused approach.
- Demonstrates strong leadership, accountability and personal drive.
- Effective communicator with excellent stakeholder management skills.
- Strong relationship-building and influencing capability.
- Remains calm, resilient and decisive under pressure.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making skills.
- Adaptable and responsive to changing business and market conditions.
- Collaborative leadership style that promotes accountability and continuous improvement.
- Professional, approachable and customer-focused.
Key Skills and Relevant Qualifications
- Significant experience within road freight, freight forwarding, transport or logistics operations.
- Proven experience leading and developing operational teams within a fast-paced logistics environment.
- Strong understanding of domestic and international road freight operations.
- Experience developing commercial strategies and driving revenue growth.
- Strong commercial awareness, including pricing, procurement, profitability and margin management.
- Experience managing customer relationships, supplier networks and strategic partnerships.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret performance data, KPIs and financial information.
- Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
- Competent user of transport, freight forwarding and business management systems.
- Relevant logistics, transport, business or supply chain qualifications desirable
We hire individuals not just based on their experience and skills, but also on their character. Our team members are enthusiastic, passionate, and dedicated to finding solutions for our clients. We believe in fostering a fun and supportive work environment, but above all, we are committed to exceeding expectations.
At The Cardinal Partnership, every employee is empowered to reach and surpass their potential. We remain steadfast in creating enduring business relationships and achieving long-term, sustainable success.
If this opportunity aligns with your ambitions, don't wait! Apply today to become a part of our thriving team. Keep in mind that if we receive a high volume of applications, we may close the role early, so act promptly to avoid any disappointment.
