Job offer: Ocean-freight Operations

Key responsibilities

Freight Booking and Documentation Management :

• Coordinate with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and customers to book ocean freight shipments in a timely and cost-effective manner.
• Prepare and manage all necessary shipping documents, including bills of lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin. Ensure the accuracy and compliance of these documents with international trade regulations and customs requirements.

Shipment Scheduling and Tracking :

• Plan and schedule the movement of goods from origin to destination, considering factors such as vessel availability, transit times, and port cut-off dates.
• Actively monitor the progress of shipments using advanced tracking systems and communicate regularly with carriers, terminals, and customers to provide real-time updates on shipment status. Anticipate and resolve any potential delays or disruptions promptly.

Customer Service and Relationship Management :

• Serve as the primary point of contact for customers regarding their ocean freight shipments. Respond promptly to inquiries, provide professional advice on shipping options and costs, and address any concerns or complaints to ensure high customer satisfaction.
• Build and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key customers, understanding their business needs and preferences, and working collaboratively to optimize their supply chain logistics.

Cost Control and Analysis:

• Analyze and negotiate freight rates, surcharges, and other shipping costs with carriers and suppliers. Identify opportunities for cost savings and implement strategies to optimize freight spend without sacrificing service quality.
• Prepare regular reports on ocean freight operations, including key performance indicators such as on-time delivery rates, freight costs per unit, and shipment volume. Use data analysis to evaluate operational efficiency and drive continuous improvement initiatives.

Compliance and Risk Management:

• Stay updated on international trade laws, customs regulations, and industry best practices related to ocean freight. Ensure strict compliance with all relevant legal and regulatory requirements throughout the shipping process.
• Assess and mitigate potential risks associated with ocean freight operations, such as cargo damage, loss, or theft. Develop and implement contingency plans to minimize the impact of unforeseen events on shipments and business operations.

Vendor and Carrier Management:

• Evaluate, select, and manage relationships with ocean carriers, freight forwarders, and other service providers. Monitor their performance, negotiate service agreements, and ensure timely and reliable delivery of services.
• Collaborate with internal teams, such as procurement and sales, to align vendor and carrier strategies with overall business objectives.

Requirements

• Bachelors degrees in logistics, supply chain management, international business, or a related field.
• Min. 2 - 3 years of experience in ocean freight operations, preferably in a fast-paced international logistics environment.
• Proficiency in using ocean freight management software and tools (e.g., Cargo Wise).
• Strong knowledge of international shipping lanes, ports, and terminal operations.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, both written and verbal in English
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Adaptable to change and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Demonstrated ability to take initiative and drive results.