West Africa Lead / Freight Forwarding at Imperial

Job Function

• To initiate the DP World Freight Forwarding network and footprint expansion strategy across East / West Africa, to implement Ocean & Air product procurement strategies in key East / West Africa Countries), to implement key Trade Lane strategies (IMEA), ensuring strategic compliance across the East African network, and mitigating risk associated to contract liability with network offices/ partners.

Key Performance Areas

Network

• To grow Freight Forwarding competence across the region through;
• Bolstering Freight Forwarding competence within existing Imperial/DP World freight forwarding operations in East Africa
• Maintaining and expanding existing partner agent relationships and opening their services to our global offices
• Collaborating with partners in key geographies and opening their services to our global offices
• Partnering, Leveraging, and Acquiring new freight forwarding businesses
• Collaborating and enhancing business between the global offices

Operations

• To grow Freight Forwarding across the region through;
• Introduction and implementation of sound operational platforms, either through CW1 or Cargo Runners
• Implementation of customs services and compliance thereof
• Implementation of Air and Ocean operational teams to facilitate the throught-put of shipments
• Collaborating and enhancing business between the Imperial / DP World business units

Business Development

• To develop business within the East / West Africa Community and other trades
• Developing marketing strategies internally and externally for alignment and maximum exposure and expansion (new & existing) business
• Collaborating with Regional Commercial, Sales, Product, Operations and Trade Lane teams to execute strategies for maximum market growth and benefit across the various pillars.
• Analysing market data and KPI’s to adjust to market demands

Strategy

• Staying abreast of industry and market developments, proactively responding where required to maintain progress and support.
• Supply guidance on conceptual designs, developments and implementation strategies across the East / West Africa region

Qualifications and Experience Required

• Bachelor’s Degree in Commerce or a field related to the position
• 8 – 10 years Freight Forwarding experience
• Must be willing to travel
• Geographical and geopolitical knowledge, ability to interface and communicate with different cultures is essential
• 3 years prior experience within the Freight Forwarding industry as a P&L head.
• Minimum 5 years’ experience in a logistics or clearing and forwarding environment
• Good understanding of Import/Export procedures and Incoterms
• Prior experience within Commercial / Operations in the industry is preferred

Skills Required

• Strong networker
• Strong analytical skills
• Accuracy and attention to detail is a must.
• Communication capability at all levels, both internally and externally
• Ability to work independently and be a team player simultaneously
• Excellent Communication and presentation skills
• Work well under pressure, adhere to deadlines and be a self-starter
• Ability to work independently and be a team player simultaneously
• Must take ownership of the position, be dedicated and innovative
• Ability to present the company services and group in a professional manner
• Willingness to share knowledge and mentor less experienced team members
• Willingness to acquire new skills and gain knowledge and share best practices.