Operations Manager - Sea Freight

About This Role

Sea Freight Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing and managing all sea freight import and export operations. This includes supervising staff, ensuring regulatory compliance, maintaining service levels with carriers and clients, optimizing cost efficiency, and driving operational excellence. The ideal candidate will have in-depth knowledge of international shipping regulations, ocean freight practices, and supply chain coordination.

Duties & Responsibilities:

• Oversee day-to-day sea freight operations, including FCL (Full Container Load) and LCL (Less-than-Container Load) shipments.
• Manage the end-to-end shipping process - from booking cargo space to final delivery.
• Ensure accurate and timely documentation (e.g., Bill of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, etc.).
• Track shipments and resolve delays, demurrage, or detention issues promptly.
• Lead and manage the sea freight operations team, including planners, coordinators and customer service staff.
• Assign tasks, set KPIs and monitor team performance.
• Provide coaching, training and support to ensure high productivity and morale.
• Maintain strong relationships with customers, shipping lines and overseas agents.
• Negotiate freight rates and service contracts with carriers and vendors.
• Ensure timely and professional communication with clients regarding cargo status, documentation and issue resolution.
• Ensure compliance with international trade laws, customs regulations and environmental policies.
• Liaise with customs brokers and port authorities for clearance and compliance.
• Maintain accurate records and handle audits or inspections when necessary.
• Monitor shipping costs, operational budgets, and vendor invoices.
• Identify opportunities for cost savings and operational improvements.
• Prepare regular reports on shipment performance, costs, and KPIs for senior management.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business, or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in sea freight operations, with at least 2 years in a managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of international shipping, Incoterms, trade compliance and customs procedures.
• Proficiency in logistics software and MS Office Suite.
• Excellent negotiation, leadership and interpersonal skills.

Pay: AED4,000.00 - AED8,000.00 per month

Application Question(s):

• What's your visa status?
• Do you speak, read, and write Arabic?

Work Location: In person