About the Role:
Liverpool has long been one of the United Kingdom's most important maritime and logistics centres, and at Digital Worldwide Shipping and Logistics Ltd, we build on that heritage by delivering dependable international freight and supply chain services.
We are looking for a Director of Shipping Operations who can take full ownership of our shipping, freight forwarding, and operational delivery functions. You will lead our operations team, improve service performance, strengthen relationships with carriers and logistics partners, and ensure that every shipment is managed safely, efficiently, and in accordance with regulatory requirements.
You will work closely with senior management, clients, customs agents, transport providers, and internal departments to ensure that our operations remain commercially competitive and consistently reliable.
Why Work With Us?
The Environment:
Our Liverpool location places us close to one of the United Kingdom's leading port and logistics networks. You will work in a fast-moving environment where operational decisions have a direct impact on customers, partners, and business performance.
Leadership Influence:
This is a senior position with meaningful influence over company strategy, operational standards, supplier relationships, and service development. You will have the authority to introduce improvements and shape the future direction of our shipping operations.
International Reach:
Our work involves domestic and international freight movements across multiple transport routes. You will collaborate with carriers, freight partners, customs representatives, and clients operating across different markets.
Professional Growth:
You will be supported with opportunities for relevant industry training, leadership development, and professional networking within the shipping, freight, and supply chain sectors.
Key Responsibilities:
Shipping Operations Leadership:
Oversee daily shipping, freight forwarding, transport coordination, and cargo movement activities. Ensure that operational targets are achieved without compromising service quality or compliance.
Team Leadership:
Lead, support, and develop operations managers, coordinators, and administrative staff. Set clear objectives, review performance, and create a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Carrier and Supplier Management:
Maintain strong working relationships with shipping lines, road transport providers, customs agents, warehouse partners, and other third-party suppliers. Review service levels, rates, and contractual performance.
Operational Strategy:
Develop and implement operational plans that support business growth, improve efficiency, reduce delays, and strengthen customer satisfaction.
Compliance and Risk Management:
Ensure that all shipping activities comply with applicable customs procedures, transport regulations, health and safety requirements, and internal company policies.
Performance Monitoring:
Track operational performance using service data, shipment reports, delivery timelines, cost information, and customer feedback. Identify problems and implement corrective action.
Budget and Cost Control:
Manage operational budgets, monitor freight and transport costs, review supplier charges, and identify opportunities to improve profitability while maintaining service standards.
Client and Stakeholder Management:
Work directly with key clients and internal stakeholders to resolve complex operational issues, provide shipment updates, and develop practical logistics solutions.
Continuous Improvement:
Review current processes and introduce improvements in shipment tracking, documentation, communication, supplier management, and service delivery.
What We Are Looking For:
Experience:
At least 7 years of experience in shipping, freight forwarding, logistics, transport, or supply chain operations, including a minimum of 2 years in a senior leadership position.
Industry Knowledge:
Strong knowledge of international shipping procedures, freight documentation, customs processes, carrier management, and multimodal transport operations.
Leadership Skills:
Demonstrated ability to lead operational teams, manage performance, resolve problems, and maintain high service standards in a demanding environment.
Commercial Awareness:
A strong understanding of shipping costs, supplier negotiations, operational budgets, service agreements, and business performance.
Communication Skills:
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work confidently with clients, carriers, suppliers, employees, and senior management.
Technology:
Experience using transport management systems, shipment tracking platforms, Microsoft Office applications, and operational reporting tools.
Mindset:
You are organised, commercially aware, calm under pressure, and comfortable making decisions that affect customers, staff, and operational performance.
Pay: £70,000.00-£91,600.00 per year
Benefits:
- Company car
- On-site parking
- Private medical insurance
Work Location: In person
