Ocean Freight Manager Job Vacancy at Alistair Group

Alistair Group is one of East and Southern Africa’s fastest growing service companies, providing a variety of self-delivered logistics solutions across several geographies, aimed with the vision to Make Africa Work Better! With core competencies in road freight, warehousing, commodity trading and operational hire of material handling equipment, the Group strives for continuous expansion of innovative ancillary services to grow the business vertically, complimented by a healthy dose of entrepreneurial flair. The business has gone from strength to strength, growing quickly in both its geographical coverage and variety of services offered to clients. In 2024, the Group exceeded the 1000 employee mark, and managed a fleet of  well over 1000 trucks. With Alistair’s aggressive and exciting growth strategy, the Group is poised for significant further expansion and a greater impact in Africa.

Core Services:

• Forwarding
• Customs & Clearance
• Energy Industry Support Services
• Equipment Rental
• Commodity Trading
• Integrated Solutions
• Warehousing
• Ocean Freight

Industries:

• Mining
• Oil & Gas
• Agriculture
• Construction
• Explosives
• Renewables

Mission
To make Africa work better

Company values
Customer Focus, Continual Improvement, Honesty, Humility, and Safety.

Accountability & Responsibility Areas

The Ocean Freight Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of ocean freight operations, managing carrier relationships, and ensuring efficient and cost effective shipping transportation solutions for Alistair Group’s customers

Operations Management

• Oversee daily ocean freight operations and shipment coordination
• Manage end-to-end ocean freight processes, including booking, documentation and tracking
• Monitor shipment status and resolve any operational issues
• Ensure compliance with international shipping regulations and customs requirements
• Implement and maintain standard operating procedures

Carrier Management

• Negotiate and manage contracts with ocean carriers
• Maintain strong relationships with shipping lines and agents
• Monitor carrier performance and service levels
• Source and evaluate new carrier partnerships
• Manage rate agreements and service contracts

Financial Management

• Develop and manage department budget
• Monitor and analyze freight costs
• Identify cost-saving opportunities
• Review and approve freight invoices
• Generate financial reports and forecasts

Team Management

• Manage and develop the ocean freight team
• Set performance targets and conduct regular reviews
• Provide training and mentorship
• Ensure adequate staffing levels
• Foster a positive work environment

Customer Service

• Maintain high levels of customer satisfaction
• Handle escalated customer issues
• Develop solutions for complex shipping requirements
• Provide regular updates to key clients
• Build and maintain strong client relationships

Education, Skills & Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or related field
• Professional certifications in freight forwarding / logistics
• Minimum 5 – 8 years of experience in a similar role of ocean freight operations
• Proven track record in carrier negotiations
• Experience with international shipping regulations and documentation

The Company reserves the right to withdraw from the recruitment process at any time, at its sole discretion. The sharing of any aptitude test, assessment, or invitation to an interview does not constitute an offer of employment or guarantee any future employment with the Company. Candidates acknowledge that progression through any stage of the recruitment process does not imply or ensure an eventual offer of employment.