We are recruiting for a Senior Import Ocean Freight Operator to join a large freight company based in Witham.

This candidate will be responsible for overseeing Import Operations including managing and coordinating all aspects of ocean import operations for key customers, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations and company policies.

Main Duties:

• Customer Relations: Build and maintain strong relationships with key clients, understanding their shipping needs and providing tailored solutions to optimise their supply chain.
• Carrier Management: Negotiate rates with ocean carriers, establish contracts if required, and maintain strong partnerships to ensure competitive pricing and reliable service.
• Documentation and Compliance: Ensure accurate and timely preparation of import documentation, including bills of lading, customs forms, and certificates of origin, while adhering to regulatory requirements.
• Performance Monitoring: Implement KPIs and performance metrics to track operational efficiency, identify areas for improvement, and drive continuous optimisation.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks in the import process and develop strategies to mitigate them, ensuring smooth and secure transportation of goods.
• Process Improvement: Drive process improvement initiatives to streamline operations, enhance productivity, and reduce costs, leveraging technology and best practices.

Management of Allocated Company Key Accounts:

• Client Relationship Management: Serve as the primary point of contact for allocated key accounts, building, and maintaining strong relationships with clients to understand their shipping needs and provide personalised solutions.
• Account Growth: Identify ways to expand business with existing clients, identifying opportunities for upselling, cross-selling, and introducing new services to meet their evolving requirements.
• Operational Coordination: Coordinate with internal teams, to ensure seamless execution of shipping services and timely resolution of any issues or concerns.
• Performance Monitoring: Track and analyse key account performance metrics, such as volume, revenue, and profitability, to evaluate account health, identify areas for improvement, and drive continuous optimisation.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks or challenges in the customer’s shipping process/business and develop initiative-taking strategies to mitigate them, ensuring smooth and efficient transportation of goods.
• Customer Advocacy: Act as a customer advocate within the organisation, representing the voice of the customer and championing their interests to ensure their needs are met and expectations are exceeded.
• Continuous Improvement: Drive process improvement initiatives to enhance efficiency, productivity, and customer satisfaction, collaborating with internal stakeholders to implement best practices and innovative solutions.
• Market Research: Stay informed about market trends, industry developments, and regulatory changes and adjust strategies accordingly.

Skills Required:
• In-depth knowledge of international trade regulations, customs procedures, INCO terms, and import documentation requirements.
• Strong people skills, with the ability to effectively collaborate with cross-functional stakeholders.
• Commercial acumen / Commercially minded.
• Ability to quote and negotiate with origin agents.
• Ability to put together consols based on various LCL bookings
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, with proficiency in English.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to interpret data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions to optimise operations.
• Proven negotiation skills and experience in managing relationships with ocean carriers and other external partners.
• Proficiency in logistics software and tools, such as Azyra and MS Office Suite.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced and dynamic environment, adapting quickly to changing priorities and challenges.
• Extensive knowledge & experience of ocean import processes with Strong knowledge of LCL & FCL
• Knowledge and Use of CDS system
• Ability to work to deadlines with accuracy
• A high level of computer literacy