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Ocean Freight Import Manager (58910)

Overview

Reference
58910

Salary
£45,000 - £55,000/annum

Job Location
- United Kingdom -- England -- Greater London -- Havering

Job Type
Permanent

Posted
13 November 2026

Closing date
25 Dec 2026 18:26


Ocean Freight Import Manager

Location | South Essex

Salary | £44,000-£55,000 per annum

Hours | 8.30 am-5.30 pm

Working arrangement | On site initially, with the possibility of hybrid working subject to business requirements

Red Recruit is recruiting for an Ocean Freight Import Manager on behalf of an international freight forwarding and logistics company in Rainham.

You'll lead the Ocean Import Operations team, taking responsibility for the day-to-day running of the department and ensuring shipments are handled accurately, efficiently and in line with UK customs requirements. You'll also work with the Branch Manager to improve processes, develop the team and support the growth of the ocean freight business.

What you'll be doing

  • Overseeing ocean freight import operations from start to finish, planning workloads and ensuring the team meets agreed service, financial and compliance targets.

     

  • Managing and developing the import team through coaching, training, objective setting and performance reviews.

     

  • Reviewing operating procedures and KPIs to improve efficiency and customer service.

     

  • Acting as the escalation point for customers and overseas network partners, working with the Branch Manager to resolve issues.

     

  • Monitoring supplier performance and costs, and ensuring departmental administration and accounting tasks are completed on time.

     

  • Supporting the onboarding of new business and attending client visits as required.

     

What you'll need

  • Proven ocean freight import experience within a freight forwarding company, with a strong understanding of ocean carrier operations.

     

  • Experience managing an operations team and improving its performance.

     

  • Strong knowledge of UK import customs procedures and trade compliance.

     

  • Proficiency in CargoWise.

     

  • Excellent communication and customer service skills, with the ability to manage competing priorities and maintain attention to detail under pressure.

     

What's on offer

  • £45,000-£55,000 per annum.

     

  • 25 days' holiday plus bank holidays.

     

  • Company pension, individual health cover and critical illness cover.

     

  • Enhanced overtime pay and company sick pay, subject to eligibility.

     

  • Employee discounts, wellbeing support including access to a 24/7 online GP, and tailored career development.

     

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Visa sponsorship is unavailable for this role.

Apply today

If you have experience leading an ocean freight imports team and would like to discuss the role, please send your CV to careers@redrecruit.com or call the Red Recruit team on 01376 503567.

Keywords

Ocean Freight Import Manager, Ocean Import Manager, Sea Freight Import Manager, Ocean Import Operations Manager, Freight Forwarding, Ocean Freight Imports, Sea Freight Imports, CargoWise, UK Import Customs, Trade Compliance, Ocean Carrier Operations, Rainham, South Essex

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