Transport Manager (Air & Ocean Freight Operations)

Key Responsibilities Operations Management · Lead and manage the Air and Ocean Freight Operations team to ensure smooth execution of import and export shipments. · Oversee daily operations for air, ocean (FCL/LCL), and inland transportation to ensure timely cargo movement. · Ensure timely execution of import and export transportation to meet customer requirements and vessel/terminal schedules. · Monitor operational performance and resolve transportation issues proactively to minimize service disruptions. · Ensure compliance with customer SOPs, company policies, and operational procedures. · Monitor transportation milestones and ensure on-time pickup and delivery performance. · Resolve operational issues and implement corrective actions to minimize shipment delays and service disruptions. Vendor & Carrier Management · Develop and maintain relationships with trucking companies and transport service providers. · Monitor carrier performance, including service quality, on-time delivery, safety, and cost efficiency. · Negotiate transportation rates and support procurement activities. · Conduct regular carrier performance reviews and implement improvement plans where necessary. Leadership · Lead, coach, and develop the NVOCC Operations team to achieve operational excellence. · Allocate workload and resources effectively to meet business demands. · Conduct performance evaluations and identify training and development opportunities. · Promote a culture of accountability, teamwork, continuous improvement, and customer service excellence. Customer Service & Stakeholder Management · Act as the primary escalation point for transportation-related operational issues. · Work closely with Customer Service, Ocean Operations, Customs Brokerage, Warehousing, Sales, and overseas offices to ensure smooth shipment execution. · Participate in customer meetings, operational reviews, and business improvement initiatives. · Ensure timely communication of shipment status, service disruptions, and recovery plans. Financial & Cost Management · Monitor transportation costs and identify opportunities for cost optimization. · Ensure accurate vendor billing and timely approval of transportation invoices. · Support budgeting, forecasting, and transportation cost analysis. · Drive productivity improvements while maintaining agreed service levels. Compliance, Safety & Continuous Improvement · Ensure compliance with transportation regulations, customs requirements, safety standards, and company policies. · Monitor operational KPIs and implement corrective actions where required. · Lead continuous improvement initiatives to enhance productivity, service quality, and operational efficiency. · Support internal and external audits related to transport operations. Qualifications · Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field. · Minimum 7–10 years of experience in freight forwarding, with hands-on experience in both air and ocean freight operations. · At least 3 years of experience leading transportation or operations teams. · Strong knowledge of import/export transportation, container logistics, and port operations. · Experience managing carrier relationships, customer operations, and cross-functional teams. · Good command of English, both written and spoken. · Good understanding of customs procedures and freight forwarding operations. · Strong attention to detail and accuracy. · Strong analytical skills with the ability to assess operational performance and implement effective solutions.