Forwarding Operations Manager

Are you an experienced freight forwarding professional ready to step into a leadership role with real impact? A long-established and respected freight forwarding company based in Cork is looking for a dynamic Forwarding Operations Manager to lead and inspire a small but high-performing team. This is a rare opportunity to shape operations, streamline processes, and deliver exceptional service in a collaborative and forward-thinking environment.

What You’ll Be Doing:

• Lead and manage daily freight operations across Groupage, Full Trailer Load, and Ocean Freight services.
• Supervise a close-knit team of operators, driving performance, productivity, and a customer-first mindset.
• Maintain strong communication with carriers, suppliers, and clients to ensure seamless delivery and service excellence.
• Ensure all documentation is completed accurately and on time (e.g., customs paperwork, bills of lading, invoices).
• Track shipments, solve problems proactively, and ensure timely delivery across all transport modes.
• Ensure full compliance with transport legislation, customs regulations, and safety standards.
• Analyse operational performance and drive improvements in cost, service, and efficiency.
• Partner with the Finance team to review financial performance and take corrective action as needed.
• Support staff development through coaching, mentoring, and identifying training needs.
• Play a key role in integrating new business with the support of the Business Development team.
• Maintain strong working relationships across the wider business, including teams in the UK and Europe.

What You’ll Bring:

• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a supervisory or management role within a busy local freight forwarding environment.
• Strong understanding of import/export operations – experience in deep-sea FCL/LCL and airfreight is a distinct advantage.
• Confident communicator with excellent customer service skills.
• Proven ability to manage multiple priorities with accuracy and attention to detail.
• Strong analytical, planning, and organisational skills.
• A proactive team player who thrives on collaboration and continuous improvement.

Why Join Us?

• Be part of a respected, stable company with a strong local and international presence.
• Take on a leadership role where your ideas and input truly matter.
• Work with a passionate, supportive team in a friendly, professional environment.
• Enjoy a competitive salary with a bonus, pension, and private healthcare.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Logistics Career?
If you're passionate about freight operations and want to lead from the front, we’d love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion on this or any other current opportunity, please contact Nicola Murphy

IAC-Jul25