Branch Manager – Ocean Freight

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and oversee branch operations aligned with market requirements.
• Ensure world-class service delivery and productivity.
• Monitor industry trends, competitor activity, and carrier developments.
• Set branch objectives and allocate resources to achieve them.
• Drive innovation and customer-centric processes.

• Recruit, coach, and retain high-performing teams.
• Implement performance standards, policies, and KPIs.
• Manage employee engagement, resolve queries, and enforce SOPs.
• Recognize and reward exemplary performance.

• Control budgets, costs, and debtor management.
• Develop strategies to achieve gross profit targets.
• Monitor branch P&L and forecast annual budgets.
• Drive profitability and yield per client.

• Build strategic supplier partnerships.
• Lead client retention and growth strategies.
• Promote services to existing and potential clients.
• Ensure customer satisfaction, resolve escalations, and strengthen loyalty.
• Provide technical expertise and advise clients on industry developments.

• Prepare monthly and quarterly performance reports.
• Drive data-driven decision making.
• Monitor quality management systems and ISO standards compliance.
• Identify risks, lost business, and opportunities for improvement.

Qualifications

• Grade 12 Certificate.
• FIATA diploma or equivalent 3-year freight forwarding qualification (NQF level 7).

Experience

• Minimum 10 years in freight forwarding, with at least 3 years in middle management.

Competencies

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making ability.
• Business acumen and financial analysis skills.
• Proven leadership and interpersonal skills.
• Excellent communication (written and verbal).
• Planning, organizing, and change management capability.
• Ability to work under pressure with attention to detail.
• In-depth knowledge of freight forwarding practices and processes.
• Customer-centric mindset and computer literacy (Word, Excel, payroll systems).

Ideal Candidate