Inbound Logistics & Freight Procurement Specialist

A long-established and growing importer is seeking an experienced Inbound Logistics & Freight Procurement Specialist to take responsibility for its international Ocean inbound freight activities.

This is a varied role combining day-to-day freight management with supplier negotiation, cost control and process improvement. The successful candidate will manage international shipments from origin through to delivery while working closely with freight forwarders, carriers and suppliers to ensure goods arrive on time and at the right cost.

The position will also take responsibility for an annual freight spend of approximately €1.5 million, providing plenty of scope to negotiate better rates, improve service levels and deliver measurable savings.

This position would suit an experienced ocean freight or logistics professional who wants to move into a role with greater commercial responsibility.

Rather than simply coordinating shipments, you will have the opportunity to influence how inbound freight is managed, negotiate with suppliers and logistics providers, improve processes and directly contribute to reducing costs.

If you have strong international freight experience and enjoy combining operational logistics with negotiation and problem-solving, we would like to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage international inbound shipments from origin through to final delivery.
• Coordinate ocean inbound freight movements and ensure shipments remain on schedule.
• Obtain, review and negotiate freight rates with shipping lines, freight forwarders and transport providers.
• Manage relationships with carriers, logistics providers and monitor service levels.
• Identify opportunities to reduce freight costs without compromising service.
• Work with suppliers to improve shipping processes and ensure agreed requirements are followed.
• Monitor upcoming shipments and provide clear visibility of expected arrival dates.
• Analyse freight costs and supplier performance using Excel.
• Resolve shipment delays, documentation issues and other freight-related problems.
• Support the wider business by helping ensure stock is available when required.
• Identify and implement practical improvements to inbound logistics processes.

Experience & Skills

• At least 3 years' experience within ocean freight forwarding, shipping, logistics or a similar freight-focused position.
• Strong knowledge of ocean freight, including international import shipment procedures.
• Experience dealing with freight forwarders, shipping lines or other logistics providers.
• Experience obtaining and negotiating freight rates.
• Knowledge of customs procedures and Incoterms.
• Strong Excel skills and confidence working with freight costs and other data.
• Good commercial awareness with the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Strong communication, organisation and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities at the same time.

For a confidential discussion on this or any other current opportunity, please contact Garvan Cerasi 

IAC-Aug26