Key Account Manager – Freight Forwarding Location: Basildon, Essex Salary: Up to £45,000 per annum DOE Working Hours: Monday to Friday Job Type: Full-Time, Permanent About the Role We are currently recruiting for an experienced Key Account Manager to join an established freight forwarding business based in Basildon, Essex. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced freight professional to take responsibility for managing a high-profile VIP customer account, overseeing day-to-day freight operations and leading a small team of two. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the smooth movement of international shipments, maintaining exceptional customer service standards and building a strong, long-term relationship with a key client. Key Responsibilities * Manage and develop the relationship with one key VIP customer account, acting as their main point of contact. * Oversee the end-to-end coordination of international freight shipments, including cross-trade movements. * Manage FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less than Container Load) shipments. * Lead, support and manage a team of two freight operations staff. * Ensure all shipments are handled efficiently, accurately and within agreed deadlines. * Liaise with overseas agents, shipping lines, hauliers and internal departments. * Handle customer enquiries, operational issues and escalations professionally. * Monitor shipment progress and provide regular updates to the customer. * Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction and ensure agreed service standards are consistently achieved. * Oversee shipment documentation, bookings and operational processes. * Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and customer service. Requirements * Previous experience within Ocean, Road or Air Freight is essential. * Experience managing international freight shipments, ideally including cross-trade operations. * Knowledge of FCL and LCL shipments would be highly advantageous. * Previous experience in account management or handling key customer relationships. * Experience supervising or managing a small team would be beneficial. * Strong communication, organisational and problem-solving skills. * Ability to manage customer expectations and handle time-sensitive shipments. * A proactive, customer-focused approach with excellent attention to detail. What's on Offer? * Competitive basic salary of up to £45,000 DOE. * Monday to Friday working hours. * Opportunity to manage a prestigious VIP customer account. * Responsibility for leading and developing a small team. * Long-term career progression within an established freight forwarding business. * Supportive and professional working environment. Apply Today If you have experience within Ocean, Road or Air Freight and are looking to take the next step into a Key Account Management position, we would love to hear from you. Contact Tallgrass Recruitment for further information or to discuss the opportunity in confidence