Ocean Freight Supervisor

Ocean Freight Supervisor

Overview

Our client in the transport and logistics industry is looking for an experienced and detail-oriented Ocean Freight Supervisor to oversee the day-to-day execution of ocean freight operations. This role is responsible for ensuring efficient compliant and high-quality shipment handling while leading a team and maintaining strong relationships with customers and carriers.

Ocean Freight Operations

• Supervise end-to-end ocean import and export operations from booking or pre-alert through to final delivery and file closure.

• Ensure accurate and timely processing of all shipping documentation including Bills of Lading manifests invoices shipping instructions and packing lists.

• Monitor shipment milestones and proactively manage delays exceptions and escalations.

• Ensure compliance with internal procedures carrier requirements and regulatory standards.

• Coordinate closely with internal departments such as Customs Transport Warehousing Finance and Customer Service.

Systems & Data Management

• Ensure all ocean freight jobs are accurately created updated and closed within the relevant system.

• Oversee job costing accruals supplier invoices and customer billing for accuracy and timeliness.

• Maintain high data quality standards through real-time updates document uploads and milestone tracking.

• Support reporting and operational performance analysis.

Team Leadership & Development

• Supervise and support ocean freight operators and coordinators ensuring effective workload distribution.

• Provide coaching guidance and technical support to the team.

• Assist with onboarding and training of new employees.

• Escalate performance or disciplinary matters where necessary.

Customer & Carrier Management

• Act as the primary escalation point for operational service issues.

• Build and maintain strong relationships with shipping lines agents and logistics partners.

• Support onboarding of new clients and ensure alignment with agreed service procedures.

Performance Cost & Compliance

• Monitor and drive performance against key KPIs such as on-time delivery productivity billing timelines and cost control.

• Manage and minimise demurrage detention and operational cost exposure.

• Ensure compliance with trade regulations internal policies and audit requirements.

• Identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives.

• On-time shipment execution

• Data accuracy and billing timeliness

• Productivity per operator

• Demurrage and detention control

• Customer satisfaction and issue resolution

• Compliance and audit outcomes

Essential

• 5 7 years experience in freight forwarding with strong exposure to ocean freight operations.

• 1 2 years experience in a senior or supervisory role.

• Strong understanding of import/export processes and shipping documentation.

• Knowledge of trade customs and inland transport environments.

Desirable

• Experience within a multinational logistics or freight forwarding organisation.

• Exposure to both FCL and LCL operations.

• Qualification in Logistics Supply Chain Management or Business Administration.

• Experience using CargoWise or similar freight management systems.

• Strong organisational and operational management skills

• Leadership and team development capability

• High attention to detail and accuracy

• Customer-focused with strong communication skills

• Ability to perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment

• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities

• A dynamic and fast-paced work environment

• Exposure to international supply chain operations

• Opportunities for career growth and professional development

• Access to structured training and advanced systems

• Competitive remuneration aligned with experience and market standards

• A collaborative culture focused on performance and continuous improvement