Freight Forwarding Team Leader

Overview

In this role you will lead a seven-strong team within a busy Southampton operation while staying hands-on with export shipments. You will act as the daily link between the Operations Manager and the operations team, guiding delivery from enquiry to completion. You’ll manage complex cargo such as break bulk, OOG, and project shipments, ensuring accuracy and proactive client communication. This is a practical leadership position that combines team oversight with active operational involvement, shaping efficient, compliant exports.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support a team of 7 operational staff
• Act as the day-to-day link between the Operations Manager and the team
• Remain hands-on with management and coordination of export shipments
• Manage complex shipments from enquiry through to final delivery
• Own shipment files, including operational and financial elements
• Prepare and progress shipment estimates to booked cargo
• Coordinate specialist cargo movements (shipping, cradling, wrapping, insurance, surveying)
• Proactively communicate with customers and anticipate issues
• Support the team with complex operational issues and challenging shipments
• Maintain high standards of customer service, accuracy, and communication
• Stay updated on international shipping regulations and regional considerations
• Share knowledge to develop the team’s operational capability

Key requirements

• Solid freight forwarding and export operations experience
• Experience with break bulk, project cargo and/or out-of-gauge shipments
• Experience in export freight forwarding and end-to-end shipment management
• Ability to prepare quotations and shipment estimates
• Experience coordinating multiple suppliers and service providers
• Knowledge of customs, shipping documentation and international transport processes
• Experience managing customer relationships and proactive communication
• Experience supporting or leading an operational team
• Experience resolving complex transport or shipment issues

• Proactive communication
• Problem-solving and initiative
• Leadership and people development
• Break bulk cargo handling
• Project cargo experience
• Out-of-gauge (OOG) shipments

…