Manager - Ocean Freight

About This Role

Introduction:

Join us at AIT, where we believe every day presents an opportunity to make a global impact!

We’re problem solvers, driven by our curiosity and creativity, in endless pursuit of solutions for our customers. Together, we champion the strength of our global teams. And, as trusted advisors, we go above and beyond, working together in a supportive and collaborative environment to ensure customer satisfaction.

Through the company's continued growth, we challenge ourselves to be better, continuously learning and growing in our dynamic environment. Helping others is at the core of our culture, join us in finding fulfillment by giving back to our local communities as the united team that is AIT. Find out what our people deliver.® means when you come move the world with us! Hear directly from our teammates at AIT Worldwide Logistics and make us the next stop on your career journey.

Overview:

The Manager – Ocean Freight will be responsible for managing and growing AIT’s Ocean Freight business across the Middle East region, working closely with the Ocean Leader – India & Middle East to execute regional strategy. This role focuses on operational execution, carrier management, pricing support, and customer solutions within an established strategic framework.

The individual will have strong knowledge of international ocean logistics, pricing fundamentals, and carrier engagement, and will support procurement, capacity planning, and service delivery to ensure profitable and reliable operations across the Middle East.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and develop AIT’s Ocean Freight business across the Middle East region, working closely with the Ocean Leader – India & Middle East and the Vice President for Middle East to execute the regional strategy.
• Develop and enhance ocean freight products and solutions, identifying market gaps and opportunities for growth.
• Manage and lead inbound and outbound ocean shipments, ensuring timely delivery and high‑quality, committed service.
• Source competitive rates and manage RFQs and tenders, negotiate with carriers and suppliers, and support pricing concepts to increase product revenue.
• Work with ocean providers to negotiate LTA, contract, and spot rates for specific origin–destination pairs.
• Develop and execute initiatives to drive revenue growth and identify new business opportunities.
• Build and maintain strong client relationships, delivering transparent, reliable, and high‑quality customer service.
• Act as a liaison with internal teams and external customers to resolve issues related to ocean procurement, shipments, and service delivery.
• Provide clear and effective communication between AIT stations, agent partners, ocean carriers, and service providers.
• Connect teams and align them around shared business goals and targets; manage, guide, engage, and develop the Ocean Freight team.
• Perform other duties and responsibilities as required based on business needs.

Qualifications:

• 10–15 years of results‑driven experience managing complex supply chains, ocean freight operations, pricing & procurement with a proven track record of delivering cost savings, operational efficiency improvements, and business growth
• 8–10 years of supervisory or people‑management experience
• Strong understanding of international logistics, Incoterms, carrier contracts, and rate mechanisms.
• Effective coordination and stakeholder management skills.
• Ability to work within defined strategies while contributing practical, execution‑focused insights.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and problem‑solving skills.
• Master’s degree / MBA in Supply Chain Management, Operations, or a related discipline — Preferred
• Strong system proficiency, including CargoWise or similar logistics platforms

About AIT Worldwide:

AIT Worldwide Logistics is a global freight forwarder that helps its customers grow by expanding access to markets all over the world where they can sell and/or procure raw materials, components, and finished goods. For more than 40 years, the America’s-based supply chain solutions leader has relied on a consultative approach to build a global network and trusted partnerships in nearly every industry, including aerospace, automotive, consumer retail, food, government, healthcare, high-tech, industrial and life sciences. Backed by scalable, user-friendly technology, AIT’s flexible business model customizes door-to-door deliveries via sea, air, ground, and rail—on time and on budget. With expert teammates staffing more than 100 worldwide locations in Asia, Europe, India, and North America, AIT’s full-service options also include customs clearance, warehouse management and white glove services. Learn more about AIT Worldwide Logistics, our culture and core values in action here. *AIT Worldwide Logistics is an Equal Opportunity Employer – M/F/Veterans/Disabled. If you are unable to apply online due to a disability, contact Human Resources at 630-766-8300 ext 5218.*What AIT Can Offer You:

In addition to base compensation, AIT offers a growing suite of competitive benefits to help our teammates realize their full financial, well-being, personal and professional potential.AIT Worldwide Logistics benefits available across all global markets* Vacation/holiday time

• Global employee support program
• Mindfulness tools
• Professional development
• Company events and gatherings
• Five paid volunteer hours through our AIT Cares program

Our competitive employee benefits packages may vary by region and country.