Important: This is a commercial role. You will be expected to sell while establishing the branch. Candidates should have a track record of achieving at least £500K in annual gross profit, with a focus on ocean imports from Asia.
Job Title: Managing Director (freight forwarding with a focus on ocean freight)
Location: UK – Flexible (e.g., London, Felixstowe, Southampton, Manchester, Birmingham)
Salary: Up to £200K + commission and potential shares in the UK business
About the Role:
A US-based freight forwarding client seeks a commercially driven and strategic Managing Director to establish and lead their first UK office. Bringing a team is preferred. The company has offices in the US, Asia, and Germany, and plans to expand further, including in Belgium and the Netherlands. The role emphasizes ocean freight and building a team to meet local and global needs.
Key Responsibilities:
* Launch and lead the UK office with full P&L responsibility
* Lead business development and build a high-performing team
* Develop market entry strategy focusing on ocean freight growth
* Build relationships with shipping lines, clients, and supply chain partners
* Ensure compliance with UK and international logistics regulations
* Collaborate with international leadership for European growth
Requirements:
* Senior leadership experience in freight forwarding, especially ocean freight
* Existing contacts with SMEs to build profit quickly
* Proven commercial success in market development and revenue growth
* Experience launching or scaling regional offices (desirable)
* Deep knowledge of UK logistics sector and trade corridors
* Entrepreneurial, autonomous, and hands-on approach
* Willingness to travel and collaborate internationally
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