Operations Manager
CV-LibraryFelixstowe, SuffolkpermanentPosted: 2 June 2026
Apply NowTime Appointments are working on behalf of a successful freight forwarding business in Felixstowe who are seeking an Operations Manager to join their close-knit team. This role would be an ideal next step for an experienced Operations Supervisor, or similar, looking to take the next step in their career.
This is a hands-on operational role, where you’ll be fully responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the UK branch, and leading by example while still being actively involved in driving sales and progressing the business towards success.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
* Overseeing the daily operations of the UK branch, covering import/export movements
* Leading, motivating, and developing the operations team, setting clear performance expectations
* Ensuring efficient handling of shipments, meeting service levels, deadlines, and customer expectations
* Maintain strong relationships with carriers, agents, and key customers
* Actively contributing to business growth through client engagement and new business development
* Managing and developing key customer accounts
* Preparing and presenting quotations, negotiating rates, and maximising profitability
* Supporting the wider business in achieving revenue and margin targets
The Ideal Candidate:
* Extensive transport and freight forwarding experience, with a strong commercial mindset
* Proven experience in a Supervisory role, or similar, within freight forwarding, and ready to step up in a more senior position
* Experience in successfully leading, motivating, and developing an operations team towards success
* Fully competent in all aspects training and coaching employees
* Excellent business acumen, along with an energetic and confident nature to drive staff towards success
* Strong understanding of UK continent customs requirements
* Strong sales and negotiation abilities, comfortable providing quotes and advising customers
* Hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving skills
* Able to communicate confidently with clients and colleagues
* Positive, team-focused attitude and desire to grow with the business
This is a hands-on operational role, where you’ll be fully responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the UK branch, and leading by example while still being actively involved in driving sales and progressing the business towards success.
Key Duties & Responsibilities:
* Overseeing the daily operations of the UK branch, covering import/export movements
* Leading, motivating, and developing the operations team, setting clear performance expectations
* Ensuring efficient handling of shipments, meeting service levels, deadlines, and customer expectations
* Maintain strong relationships with carriers, agents, and key customers
* Actively contributing to business growth through client engagement and new business development
* Managing and developing key customer accounts
* Preparing and presenting quotations, negotiating rates, and maximising profitability
* Supporting the wider business in achieving revenue and margin targets
The Ideal Candidate:
* Extensive transport and freight forwarding experience, with a strong commercial mindset
* Proven experience in a Supervisory role, or similar, within freight forwarding, and ready to step up in a more senior position
* Experience in successfully leading, motivating, and developing an operations team towards success
* Fully competent in all aspects training and coaching employees
* Excellent business acumen, along with an energetic and confident nature to drive staff towards success
* Strong understanding of UK continent customs requirements
* Strong sales and negotiation abilities, comfortable providing quotes and advising customers
* Hands-on approach with excellent problem-solving skills
* Able to communicate confidently with clients and colleagues
* Positive, team-focused attitude and desire to grow with the business