Air Freight Operations Executive

The Opportunity

We are currently recruiting on behalf of our client, an established freight forwarding business based in Manchester, for an experienced Air Freight Operations Executive to join their operations team.

This is an excellent opportunity for an air freight professional with a strong operational background and knowledge of multimodal transport to take ownership of shipments from initial quotation through to final delivery and invoicing.

The successful candidate will be confident dealing directly with customers and suppliers, negotiating competitive rates, coordinating transport arrangements and ensuring all shipments are handled efficiently, accurately and in compliance with relevant export regulations.

You will be joining a busy office environment where flexibility, initiative and a hands-on approach are essential. There may also be opportunities to visit haulier warehouses when required to coordinate documentation and resolve operational issues.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full air freight process from initial quotation through to final invoicing.
• Prepare and provide competitive quotations to customers, negotiating rates and securing the best possible buying power from suppliers.
• Handle customer enquiries, process bookings and maintain strong customer relationships.
• Arrange and coordinate air freight shipments and associated transportation requirements.
• Liaise with airlines, hauliers, suppliers, customers and other relevant parties to ensure the smooth movement of freight.
• Open shipment files and accurately input and maintain shipment information using CargoWise or other freight management systems.
• Prepare and process essential shipping documentation, including air waybills, commercial invoices and export documentation.
• Maintain compliance with export regulations and assist with customs clearance procedures and associated documentation.
• Track shipments and proactively communicate updates regarding collections, deliveries and any delays or issues.
• Produce and process customer invoices, ensuring accurate and timely billing.
• Resolve operational queries and problems efficiently, taking a proactive approach to finding solutions.
• Ensure all records, documentation and reporting are completed accurately and within required timescales.
• Support the wider operations team and assist with additional duties as required.

The Ideal Candidate

To be considered for this opportunity, you will ideally have:

• Previous experience in an air freight operations role within a freight forwarding environment.
• A good understanding of air freight procedures and the wider multimodal transport sector.
• Experience preparing quotations, negotiating supplier rates and managing shipment costs.
• Knowledge of export documentation and customs clearance procedures.
• Experience using CargoWise or a similar freight management system.
• Strong customer service skills and the confidence to communicate professionally with customers and suppliers over the telephone and in person.
• Excellent organisational skills, with a high level of accuracy and attention to detail.
• The ability to manage competing priorities, meet strict deadlines and remain calm under pressure.
• A proactive, dependable and flexible approach, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, alongside effective problem-solving abilities.

What's on Offer?

• A negotiable salary, dependent on experience.
• The opportunity to join an established freight forwarding business.
• A varied, hands-on role with responsibility for shipments from start to finish.
• The opportunity to develop your experience across air freight and multimodal logistics.

Apply Now

If you have experience in air freight operations and are looking for your next opportunity within the freight forwarding industry, we would be keen to hear from you.

Apply today to discuss this opportunity in confidence with our recruitment team.

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