Sales Manager - Import Export

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Sales Manager to drive and grow our import and export freight business in Chennai. You will own sales targets, win and manage key accounts, and build lasting client relationships across air and sea freight.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a sales strategy to grow import and export air and sea freight business in Chennai
• Generate new business and build a strong, diversified customer portfolio
• Own and manage key accounts, ensuring high retention and repeat business
• Lead rate negotiations with customers, shipping lines, airlines, and overseas agents
• Structure competitive quotations and tailored logistics solutions based on trade lanes, freight rates, and customer requirements
• Achieve and exceed monthly, quarterly, and annual sales and revenue targets
• Lead, mentor, and monitor sales executives, where applicable, setting targets and reviewing performance
• Maintain a healthy sales pipeline and review it regularly with senior management
• Coordinate with operations, pricing, documentation, and finance teams to ensure service quality and timely delivery
• Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and freight rate movements, and recommend pricing strategies
• Represent the company at client meetings, industry events, and networking forums
• Ensure timely collections and manage credit risk with finance teams
• Prepare sales forecasts, MIS, and performance reports for management

Required Skills and Qualifications

• 7 to 10 years of proven experience in import and export freight forwarding sales
• Strong knowledge of air freight and sea freight, both imports and exports
• Demonstrated ability to generate new business and build a strong customer portfolio
• In-depth understanding of freight rates, trade lanes, and logistics solutions
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and client relationship skills
• Proven record of consistently achieving sales targets
• Strong grasp of Incoterms, shipping documentation, and customs processes
• Leadership and team management ability
• Proficiency in MS Office and CRM tools