Lead - Freight Forwarding

Role Overview:

We are seeking a seasoned logistics professional to spearhead our Freight Forwarding operations in Lagos, Nigeria. In this leadership capacity, you will oversee the end-to-end lifecycle of international shipments, ensuring seamless coordination between global carriers, local customs authorities, and our internal supply chain teams. You will act as the primary point of contact for high-value clients, navigating the complexities of the Nigerian regulatory landscape to ensure timely delivery and operational excellence. By optimizing shipping routes and streamlining clearance processes, you will directly influence the companys bottom line and strengthen our market position as a reliable logistics partner in the West African region.

Key Responsibilities:

- Direct the end-to-end freight forwarding strategy to ensure cost-efficiency and operational compliance across all import and export activities.

- Manage complex customs clearance processes by liaising with regulatory bodies and port authorities to minimize transit delays and mitigate operational risks.

- Lead and mentor cross-functional teams to maintain high standards of shipping operations, ensuring that all documentation and cargo handling meet international quality benchmarks.

- Cultivate and maintain strategic relationships with global shipping lines, local agents, and key stakeholders to secure competitive freight rates and priority service levels.

- Analyze supply chain performance metrics to identify bottlenecks and implement process improvements that enhance overall service delivery for our diverse client base.

Required Skillset:

- Demonstrated expertise in navigating Nigerian customs regulations, trade compliance, and port operations to ensure zero-defect shipping cycles.

- Proven ability to lead large-scale logistics operations, with a focus on strategic planning, P&L management, and team development in a high-pressure environment.

- Exceptional negotiation and stakeholder management skills, capable of influencing external partners and internal leadership to achieve organizational objectives.

- Strong analytical mindset to interpret complex supply chain data and translate it into actionable strategies for operational growth.

- A degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field, complemented by 10 - 15 years of progressive experience in the freight forwarding industry.

- High adaptability to the on-site work environment in Lagos, with the resilience to manage dynamic operational challenges in a fast-paced market.