Head of Sea Freight EMEA

Location Hamburg
Contact name: Jamie Watts

Contact email: jamie.watts@altius-talent.com
Job ref: 3642
Published: 13 days ago
Job Title: Head of Sea Freight
Location: Hamburg, Germany
Salary: €80,000 - €120,000 (Based on experience) + Car + Bonus
Reports To: Global Sea Freight Director
Team Size: 3-4 Full-Time Employees


Company Overview:

We are partnering with a well-established, midsized global freight forwarding company, renowned for its innovative logistics solutions and global reach. The company provides a wide range of supply chain and transportation services, offering expertise in air, sea, and land freight.


Job Overview:

Our client is seeking an experienced and results-driven Head of Sea Freight to lead and manage their Sea Freight team based out of Hamburg. This role is integral to ensuring the efficient and profitable delivery of sea freight services, with a focus on optimizing processes, driving business growth, and maintaining high standards of customer service. You will report directly to the Global Sea Freight Director and will be responsible for overseeing a small team of 3-4 full-time employees.


Key Responsibilities:
  • Lead, manage, and mentor a team of 3-4 professionals in the Sea Freight department, providing guidance, training, and performance management.
  • Develop and implement strategies to grow and improve sea freight operations, focusing on cost efficiency, service quality, and customer satisfaction.
  • Act as the primary point of contact for customers and stakeholders, ensuring their needs are met through effective communication and problem resolution.
  • Monitor market trends, industry regulations, and competitors to adapt strategies and identify opportunities for growth.
  • Oversee the entire sea freight process, from booking and scheduling to shipment tracking and delivery.
  • Foster strong relationships with shipping carriers, agents, and other logistics partners to secure competitive rates and optimal service levels.
  • Collaborate closely with the global sea freight team to align with broader company goals and objectives.
  • Prepare regular reports and forecasts for the Global Sea Freight Director, highlighting key performance metrics, risks, and opportunities.
Requirements:
  • Proven experience in sea freight forwarding, with at least 5-7 years in a managerial or leadership position.
  • Fluent in both written and spoken German and English (a must).
  • Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and motivating a small team.
  • In-depth knowledge of the sea freight industry, including logistics, shipping regulations, and market trends.
  • Excellent communication, negotiation, and problem-solving abilities.
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment, managing multiple priorities and deadlines.
  • Strong commercial acumen and a customer-centric mindset.
  • Proficiency with logistics and freight forwarding software/tools.
What We Offer:
  • Competitive salary range of €80,000 - €120,000 (based on experience).
  • Performance-based bonus structure.
  • Company car.
  • Opportunities for professional growth and development within a global organization.
  • Collaborative and supportive work environment.
If you are a motivated and experienced professional in sea freight forwarding, fluent in German, and ready to take on a leadership role, we would love to hear from you. Please apply or contact Jamie Watts on jamie.watts@altius-talent.com