Branch Manager – Freight Forwarding (Start-Up) – Birmingham – Up to £50,000 plus profit share
We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Branch Manager to lead the establishment and growth of a new freight forwarding branch in Birmingham.
This is a start-up leadership opportunity requiring a hands-on approach with a strong sales and operational background in freight forwarding, and a proven track record within the automotive sector.
The successful candidate will be responsible for building the branch from the ground up – developing revenue, securing key accounts, establishing operational structure, recruiting staff, and delivering sustainable profitability.
This is a high-autonomy role suited to an entrepreneurial freight professional who thrives on ownership and accountability.
Job type: Full time/permanent
Location: Birmingham
Package: £50,000 plus Car allowance/Company car and profit share
Key Responsibilities
Commercial & Sales Leadership
* Develop and execute a branch growth strategy
* Secure new business, with a focus on automotive supply chain clients
* Leverage existing industry relationships to generate revenue
* Negotiate rates with carriers and partners
* Build long-term customer partnerships
Operational Management
* Oversee daily freight forwarding operations
* Ensure service delivery meets automotive sector expectations (JIT, JIS, time‑critical movements)
* Maintain compliance with customs and international trade regulations
* Implement SOPs and performance standards
Branch & Team Development
* Over time with success, you’ll recruit, lead, and develop branch staff
* Establish structure, accountability, and performance KPIs
* Manage P&L responsibility and cost control
* Build a high-performance culture from inception
Strategic Responsibility
* Identify opportunities for vertical growth within automotive logistics
* Align branch strategy with wider business objectives
Candidate Profile
We are looking for a proven freight forwarding professional who:
* Has significant experience in freight forwarding (sales and operations) for a UK‑based freight forwarder
* Has strong sector knowledge within automotive logistics
* Brings an existing customer network within the Midlands / UK automotive sector
* Has experience managing P&L and driving profitability
* Demonstrates strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills
* Has prior leadership or branch management experience (or ready to step up)
* Is entrepreneurial, resilient, and comfortable building from scratch
Ideal Background
* Time‑critical, JIT/JIS logistics experience
* Experience working with OEM supply chains
* Customs knowledge (UK/EU and global trade lanes)
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