Job Description

Job Summary

The

General Manager (GM)

is responsible for the overall performance, growth, and operational efficiency of the organization. This role provides strategic leadership across

freight forwarding, customs clearance, shipping, and project logistics operations.

The GM will drive profitability, business expansion, service excellence, and team productivity while ensuring compliance with industry regulations and company policies.

Key Responsibilities:

Strategic Planning & Growth

Develop and execute strategic business plans aligned with company objectives. Own full Profit & Loss (P&L) responsibility, including revenue growth and cost control. Identify and pursue new business opportunities across freight forwarding, NVOCC, and project cargo trade lanes. Drive regional and international expansion through partnerships and alliances. Implement sustainable growth strategies aligned with market trends and trade regulations.

Operations Management

Oversee end-to-end logistics operations including import/export freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing, and project cargo handling. Ensure smooth coordination with shipping lines, transporters, and clients for efficient cargo movement. Maintain strong coordination between operations, sales, and customer service teams. Monitor and improve service quality, turnaround time, and operational efficiency. Establish and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) across all departments.

Financial & Administrative Control

Manage annual budgets, forecasts, and profit/loss statements. Monitor operational costs, billing, and receivables to maintain profitability. Negotiate vendor contracts and ensure cost-effective procurement. Ensure compliance with internal policies and statutory regulations.

Client & Partner Relations

Build, lead, and manage a high-performing sales team. Drive new client acquisition and key account growth. Maintain strong relationships with clients, agents, shipping lines, and customs authorities. Oversee customer service standards to ensure high client satisfaction. Lead business development activities including tenders, presentations, trade fairs, and networking events.

Leadership & Team Development

Lead and mentor department heads across operations, documentation, sales, and finance. Set performance goals and KPIs, conducting regular performance reviews. Recruit, train, and retain high-quality talent. Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.

Compliance, Risk & Reporting

Ensure compliance with international trade laws, customs regulations, and environmental standards. Identify and mitigate operational and commercial risks. Maintain quality standards such as ISO, FIATA, or equivalent where applicable. Submit regular performance reports, market analysis, and strategic updates to senior management. Track KPIs including volume growth, profit margins, and client retention.

Requirements:

8-15+ years of experience

in the freight forwarding or logistics industry. Previous experience as a

General Manager, Branch Manager, Country Manager, or Operations Head.

Strong knowledge of

air freight, ocean freight, customs clearance, and logistics operations.

Proven experience managing

P&L, budgets, and revenue targets.

Demonstrated ability to

build and lead sales and operations teams.

Strong leadership, client management, and negotiation skills. Strategic mindset with strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
Job Type: Full-time