Freight Forwarding Manager – Import Operations

Freight Forwarding Manager - Import Operations

Location: Clearwater, FL

Job Type: Full-Time

Salary: Competitive, based on experience

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Freight Forwarding Manager to oversee import operations and help lead the day-to-day activities of a growing logistics team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in international freight forwarding, with a primary focus on ocean and air imports , customs coordination, documentation, and customer service.

This is a hands-on management position for someone who understands the full import process and can effectively manage customers, vendors, carriers, and internal operations while ensuring shipments move efficiently and accurately.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee international import shipments from origin through final delivery.
• Coordinate ocean and air freight shipments, including documentation, booking, tracking, and delivery.
• Manage relationships with customers, overseas agents, carriers, customs brokers, and other logistics partners.
• Review and ensure accuracy of import documentation, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, arrival notices, and customs-related paperwork.
• Monitor shipment status and proactively resolve delays, discrepancies, and operational issues.
• Ensure compliance with applicable import regulations and company procedures.
• Provide guidance and support to freight forwarding staff and coordinate daily workloads.
• Train, mentor, and oversee team members as needed.
• Handle escalated customer issues and maintain strong customer relationships.
• Review operational processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and service quality.
• Assist with pricing, quotations, and account management when required.
• Track shipment performance, costs, and operational KPIs.
• Work closely with sales and operations teams to support business growth and customer retention.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in freight forwarding/logistics, with significant import experience.
• Strong knowledge of international import operations, particularly ocean freight.
• Previous supervisory, lead, or management experience preferred.
• Experience working with freight forwarders, NVOCCs, customs brokers, carriers, or international logistics providers.
• Strong understanding of import documentation and international shipping procedures.
• Excellent communication and customer service skills.
• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments, customers, and priorities simultaneously.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and freight forwarding/logistics software.
• Experience with customs clearance and compliance is a strong plus.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate would be someone who has progressed beyond a traditional Import Coordinator position and is ready to take ownership of an import operation or team. They should be comfortable being hands-on with shipments while also providing leadership and direction to other employees .

Key focus: Import experience + freight forwarding expertise + leadership/management capability.