Operations Manager Boutique Freight Forwarder (Remote)

Operations Manager Boutique Freight Forwarder | planAtude Pty Ltd | Australia

Ready to Take Your Freight Forwarding Career to the Next Level?

Are you an experienced operations professional with a strong background in import logistics? Do you want to step into a leadership role where you can make a real impact, drive innovation, and shape the future of a growing business? If you’re passionate about advancing your career in freight forwarding and excited by the challenge of using cutting-edge technology to redefine industry standards, we want to hear from you.

About Us:

We’re a fast-growing, boutique international freight forwarder based in Melbourne. As we continue to expand, we’re seeking a hands-on Operations Manager to help take our business to the next stage of growth. We specialise in providing sustainable, low-carbon freight solutions while maintaining the highest level of service. Our use of the latest technology sets us apart in the industry, and we’re looking for someone who shares our vision of combining efficiency with sustainability.

We’re committed to building a team of professionals who thrive in a collaborative, fast-paced environment, and we need a leader who is ready to drive operational excellence and support our culture of continuous improvement.

About You:

With a proven track record in import operations, you’re ready to take on a leadership role overseeing both our international and domestic logistics operations. You’ll bring a strong operational skill set and a hands-on approach to managing day-to-day activities, all while working closely with the directors to implement growth strategies.

In this role, you’ll be responsible for:

• Leading a small, dynamic team and ensuring smooth end-to-end operations across multiple modes of transport
• Overseeing the day-to-day management of freight operations, both inbound and outbound, ensuring compliance, efficiency, and customer satisfaction
• Collaborating with the directors to implement new technologies and sustainable practices that keep us ahead of the curve in the industry
• Supporting a clear operational strategy that supports the growth and evolution of the business

We’re looking for someone with:

• A strong background in import operations within the freight forwarding industry
• A passion for leading teams, with the drive to mentor and develop talent
• A forward-thinking mindset, always looking for ways to improve processes and introduce innovative solutions
• A commitment to sustainability and environmental impact in logistics

If you’re ready to make a real difference in a forward-thinking company and grow your career in an exciting direction, we’d love to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and unite the operations into a high performing collaborative team
• Innovate within the team and provide directors with additional insights into process improvement opportunities across the business
• Develop customer relationships and networks
• Ensure the integrity of data across all operational business systems 
• Establish, maintain and manage KPIs (operational depts)
• Maximise the use of Expedient across the business;
  • Supplier rate management (shipping lines, transport)
  • Quoting 
  • Invoicing 
  • Job Registration 
  • File Management 
• Sea Cargo Automation
• Liaise with suppliers regarding shipping, transport and customs clearances
• Monitor key operational tasks, export and import documentation
• Identify and develop new sales opportunities within our customer base and network
• Work to maximise our P&L, financial, results 

Management and Reporting:

• Assist with the customisation and maintenance of EXPEDIENT
• Continuously improve and update core Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Establish and maintain monthly client KPI reporting
• Deliver accurate and timely reports through company systems as required
• Manage job-level P&L in line with company expectations
• Ensure client billings are accurate and up to date before month-end, including WIPs
• Identify and address process/skill gaps, and propose actionable solutions

Client Relationships

• Strengthen face-to-face relationships with customers and suppliers
• Respond promptly and professionally to client inquiries
• Build and maintain strong, professional relationships with key clients and business partners
• Identify and pursue new opportunities within existing and new networks, particularly in target verticals, and support sales engagements as needed
• Perform any other roles and responsibilities as required by the Employer

Essential Requirements:

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in freight forwarding operations
• Aspiration to grow into an executive leadership role
• At least 2 years of leadership experience, preferably as a department head or higher
• Australian Citizenship
• Valid Australian Driver’s License
• In-depth knowledge of the international forwarding market
• Goal-oriented, self-motivated, and proactive
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Strong networking abilities and a drive to expand professional connections
• Proven ability to establish and maintain long-term relationships with both internal and external stakeholders
• Some regional and interstate travel may be required

What We Offer:

• Immediate start
• Strong onboarding with a big focus on your feedback loop and training
• Significant opportunities for career growth into senior leadership
• A chance to make a meaningful impact, improving both freight forwarding processes and driving sustainability efforts
• Flexible work arrangement: Split location between Melbourne office (70%) and home (30%)
• Competitive, negotiable salary + Company car (Electric Vehicle)
• A modern, dynamic, and supportive work environment
• A supportive environment to develop this role from Operations Manager to a GM level

planAtude – Acting as Agent
 

Tagged as: remote, remote job, virtual, Virtual Job, virtual position, Work at Home, work from home