Operations Manager – Freight Forwarding

Location: Manchester

Salary: £55,000–£65,000

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Operations Manager to join a well-established freight forwarding organisation based in Manchester.

This is an excellent opportunity for an established freight forwarding professional to take responsibility for a team of approximately 10 employees, overseeing day-to-day operations across all modes of transport, with a particular focus on Air and Ocean Freight.

The successful candidate will be responsible for driving operational performance, developing the team, maintaining high service standards and ensuring the smooth running of the operation.

The Role:

• Oversee and manage a team of approximately 10 operations staff across all modes of freight.
• Take responsibility for the day-to-day running of Air, Ocean and Road Freight operations, with a particular focus on Air and Ocean.
• Lead, motivate and develop the operations team, ensuring productivity and performance targets are achieved.
• Monitor operational KPIs, service levels and overall departmental performance.
• Ensure shipments are handled efficiently, from initial booking through to final delivery.
• Manage escalations, resolve operational issues and ensure customer expectations are consistently met.
• Identify opportunities to improve operational processes, efficiency and service delivery.
• Work closely with the sales and commercial teams to support business growth and customer retention.
• Ensure compliance with relevant industry regulations, procedures and company policies.
• Provide regular operational updates and performance reports to senior management.

Requirements:

• Proven management experience within the freight forwarding industry.
• Strong operational knowledge across Air, Ocean and Road Freight.
• Particularly strong understanding of Air and Ocean Freight operations.
• Previous experience managing, leading or developing an operations team.
• Strong understanding of freight forwarding processes, customs and international logistics.
• Excellent leadership, communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced operational environment.
• Commercially aware with a focus on operational efficiency and customer service.

What's on Offer?

• £55,000–£65,000 basic salary, depending on experience.
• Opportunity to lead an established team of approximately 10.
• Join a well-established international freight forwarding organisation.
• Career development and progression opportunities.
• Additional company benefits.