Job Title

Ocean Freight Operations Manager

Department

Operations Team

Time Type

Full time

Role Summary

We are seeking a highly experienced and strategic Ocean Freight Operations Manager of Mid-to-Senior level to lead and optimize our maritime logistics towards Europe, especially coming from Asia. The ideal candidate will possess deep technical expertise in ocean freight management, a robust network within the shipping industry, and the ability to navigate the complexities of major European gateways. This is a pivotal role focused on ensuring seamless operations for end-to-end supply chain excellence.

Key Responsibilities

Key Responsibilities

• End-to-End Operations Management: Oversee and execute high-volume ocean freight movements, specifically focusing on the to-Europe trade lane especially for coming from Asia
• Carrier Management & Negotiation: Act as the primary point of contact for Tier-1 carriers such as Maersk, CMA CGM, and MSC. Discuss ocean freight status, secure on-time schedule, and manage countermeasures against any logistics issues
• Port & Gateway Strategy: Optimize routing and inland distribution through key European hubs, including Rotterdam (most important), Koper, Rijeka, or Trieste ensuring minimized lead times and costs.
• Customer-Centered Communication: regular communication with and report to the customer regarding defining issues of carriers or ports and setting up counterplan by using the network
• Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure all shipments comply with EU maritime regulations, customs requirements, and safety standards. Proactively manage disruptions in the volatile zones.
• Data-Driven Optimization: Analyze KPIs (Transit time, vessel utilization, demurrage/detention costs) to drive continuous process improvements.

Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 7–10 years of experience in ocean freight forwarding or shipping line operations (Senior/Manager level)
• Regional Expertise: Proven track record in managing especially for Asia-Europe westbound shipments and a deep understanding of the current market dynamics. (to cover global level is the plus)
• Network: Existing professional relationships with major shipping lines and port authorities in Northern Europe and the Adriatic (Koper/Rijeka), and others.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or a related field. Master’s degree preferred
• Languages: Fluency in English is mandatory. Proficiency in Dutch or any Asian language (Korean) is a significant advantage.
• Technical Skills: Advanced proficiency in handling data and MS excel

Benefits

We offer a competitive package designed to support your professional and personal growth, including:

• Competitive salary aligned with your experience.
• Company car
• Attractive bonus paid two times per year.
• Fully covered healthcare insurance.
• International and Korean lunch at RHQ is offered at a significantly reduced rate.
• Contribution to your fitness subscription.
• Bike plan.
• 8% holiday allowance.
• 25+1 holidays (excluding public holidays) with the option to buy 5 more.
• Trainings and digital learning opportunities and much more!

What We Offer

Ready to Join Us? We'd like to hear from you - submit your application through the link below.