Job Title: Managing Director (freight forwarding with a focus on ocean freight)
Location: UK – Flexible (Major logistics hubs such as London, Felixstowe, Southampton, Manchester, Birmingham, etc.)
Salary: Up to £200K + commission and potential shares in the UK business
About the Role:
A US-based freight forwarding client is seeking a commercially driven and strategically minded Managing Director to establish and lead their first UK office. You may join as an individual or with a team of operators to support your business growth.
The company has established offices in the US, Asia, and Germany and plans to open three additional offices by year-end, including locations in Belgium and possibly the Netherlands. This role offers a unique opportunity to shape the UK presence during a key phase of global expansion.
The focus will be on ocean freight, with the freedom to build a team and operations that meet local and global market needs.
Key Responsibilities:
* Launch and lead the UK office with full P&L responsibility
* Lead business development in the UK and build a high-performing commercial and operational team
* Develop and execute the market entry strategy for the UK, focusing on ocean freight growth
* Build strong relationships with shipping lines, clients, and supply chain partners
* Ensure compliance with UK and international logistics regulations
* Contribute to European growth and integration as a strategic partner to international leadership
Requirements:
* Senior leadership experience in freight forwarding, especially ocean freight
* Proven contacts with SMEs and a plan to achieve quick profit growth
* Demonstrated commercial success in market development and revenue growth
* Experience in launching or scaling regional offices is highly desirable
* Deep knowledge of the UK logistics sector and trade routes
* Entrepreneurial mindset with a hands-on approach and ability to work independently
* Willingness to travel and collaborate across Europe, Asia, and the US
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