Department
Operations / Supply Chain
Reporting To
Supply Chain Manager / Operations Manager
Job Purpose
To coordinate and manage international shipments from Far East suppliers to the UK, EU and other global destinations, ensuring timely, cost-effective and compliant movement of goods by sea and air freight. The role is responsible for shipment planning, freight negotiations, supplier liaison, customs and compliance documentation, and ensuring deliveries are aligned with business requirements and factory production schedules.
Key Responsibilities
Shipment Coordination
- Arrange and manage international shipments from Far East suppliers to the UK, European Union and worldwide destinations.
- Coordinate both sea freight and air freight shipments in line with business requirements and delivery deadlines.
- Monitor shipment progress and proactively resolve any transportation delays or issues.
- Liaise with freight forwarders, shipping lines, airlines and customs agents to ensure smooth movement of goods.
Supplier & Factory Liaison
- Communicate regularly with overseas suppliers to monitor production schedules and factory completion dates.
- Coordinate shipment bookings in line with confirmed factory finish dates.
- Ensure suppliers meet required shipping deadlines and documentation requirements.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers and logistics partners.
Freight Procurement & Cost Management
- Negotiate competitive freight rates with shipping companies, freight forwarders and logistics providers.
- Compare shipping quotations to secure the best value and service levels.
- Identify opportunities for cost savings and freight consolidation where appropriate.
- Maintain accurate records of freight costs and shipping expenditure.
Shipment Booking & Administration
- Book shipments using supplier and freight forwarder online portals where required.
- Prepare and maintain accurate shipping schedules and shipment tracking reports.
- Ensure all shipment records and documentation are completed and filed correctly.
- Update internal systems with shipment status information and expected arrival dates.
Compliance & Documentation
- Ensure all product compliance documentation is completed and available prior to shipment dispatch.
- Verify that commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of conformity, declarations, test reports and other required documentation are accurate and complete.
- Support customs clearance processes by providing accurate shipping and product information.
Communication & Reporting
- Provide regular shipment updates to the Critical Path
- Escalate potential supply chain disruptions or delays promptly.
Skills & Experience Required
Essential
- Previous experience in international shipping, logistics, freight forwarding or supply chain administration.
- Strong understanding of sea freight and air freight operations.
- Experience coordinating imports from the Far East.
- Knowledge of import and export documentation requirements.
- Experience negotiating freight rates and managing logistics providers.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Excellent communication skills.
Desirable
- Knowledge of EU customs procedures.
- Experience using supplier booking portals and freight management systems.
- Understanding of product compliance requirements and certification processes.
- Experience within retail, manufacturing or import/export environments.
Personal Attributes
- Highly organised and proactive.
- Able to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks.
- Commercially aware and cost-conscious.
- Professional and confident communicator.
- Team player with a positive and flexible attitude.
FULL TIME OR PART TIME AVAILABLE FOR THIS POSITION BETWEEN 9AM-5PM
Pay: From £32,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Casual dress
- Free parking
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
