Senior Operations Manager
About the Company
A specialist logistics provider focused on the transportation of high-value, time-critical and sensitive shipments for artists, collectors, galleries and exhibitions. They deliver tailored logistics solutions across air, ocean and road freight, managing every stage of the supply chain with precision, discretion and exceptional customer service.
As a growing, close-knit business, they firmly believe that people are our greatest asset. They have built a collaborative and supportive culture where accountability, trust and professionalism are at the heart of everything they do. In return, they offer a competitive salary, benefits package, opportunities for development, and the chance to work on unique and exciting projects within a specialist sector.
The Opportunity
They are seeking an experienced Senior Operations Manager to take ownership of complex logistics projects from start to finish. This is an individual contributor role, requiring a hands-on operator who can manage day-to-day freight operations while acting as a trusted point of contact for high-profile clients.
The role demands exceptional attention to detail, outstanding communication skills, and the ability to operate in a fast-paced environment where there is little room for error. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring the seamless transportation of valuable goods while maintaining the highest standards of client service and operational excellence.
Flexibility to travel is essential, as the role may involve client visits, project oversight, site coordination and attendance at key shipments or events.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage end-to-end international freight operations across air, ocean and road freight.
- Take full ownership and accountability for projects from quotation through to final delivery.
- Coordinate the transportation of high-value and sensitive goods for artists, galleries and exhibitions.
- Ensure all shipments are compliant with customs regulations and international trade requirements.
- Oversee export operations while maintaining strong import capabilities.
- Handle customs clearance activities and resolve any customs-related issues.
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients, providing regular updates and proactive communication.
- Coordinate with carriers, agents, suppliers and overseas partners to ensure smooth execution of shipments.
- Monitor project timelines, costs and service delivery to achieve client expectations.
- Identify and mitigate operational risks while maintaining exceptional levels of accuracy.
- Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to the company's growth and operational excellence.
Requirements
- Extensive experience within freight forwarding and logistics operations.
- Strong operational expertise across air freight, with a particular emphasis on exports.
- Working knowledge of import operations and customs procedures.
- Customs qualification or equivalent customs compliance certification required.
- Experience managing complex international shipments from start to finish.
- Strong understanding of all modes of transport, including air, ocean and road freight.
- Exceptional customer-facing communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Highly organised with excellent attention to detail and the ability to multitask effectively.
- Proven ability to work independently and take ownership of operational outcomes.
- Comfortable working in a demanding environment where accuracy and execution are critical.
- Flexible and willing to travel as required.
Desirable Experience
- Experience handling fine art, exhibitions, live events, high-value cargo or other specialist logistics projects.
- Knowledge of handling procedures for sensitive, fragile or irreplaceable items.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Opportunity to work on unique, high-profile and specialist logistics projects.
- A supportive and collaborative team environment.
- Autonomy and ownership within a highly visible role.
- Career development opportunities within a growing business.
- A culture that genuinely values its people and recognises individual contributions.
If you are an experienced freight forwarding professional with strong air freight, customs and project management expertise, and you enjoy taking ownership of complex logistics operations, we'd love to hear from you.
FAQs
Congratulations, we understand that taking the time to apply is a big step. When you apply, your details go directly to the consultant who is sourcing talent. Due to demand, we may not get back to all applicants that have applied. However, we always keep your resume and details on file so when we see similar roles or see skillsets that drive growth in organizations, we will always reach out to discuss opportunities.
Yes. Even if this role isn’t a perfect match, applying allows us to understand your expertise and ambitions, ensuring you're on our radar for the right opportunity when it arises.
We also work in several ways, firstly we advertise our roles available on our site, however, often due to confidentiality we may not post all. We also work with clients who are more focused on skills and understanding what is required to future-proof their business.
That's why we recommend registering your CV so you can be considered for roles that have yet to be created.
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