Job Description

Global Air & Sea Freight Specialist

Location: Cape Town, Western Cape (On-site)
Employment Type: Full-time | 6-month Contract (Temp to Perm)

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced Air and Sea Freight Specialist to manage international freight operations within our logistics team in Cape Town. The successful candidate will have a minimum of 5 years of hands-on experience in managing complex freight shipments, maintaining strong relationships with import/export companies, and ensuring compliance with international trade laws. The role requires proactive problem-solving, attention to detail, and the ability to handle a variety of tasks related to freight booking, documentation, customs clearance, and logistics coordination.

Key Responsibilities

- Coordinate with carriers, shipping lines, and logistics providers to ensure on-time delivery and operational efficiency.
- Prepare and verify all necessary shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, and air waybills, ensuring compliance with international trade laws.
- Oversee shipments from booking to final delivery, managing both FCL and LCL, import and export.
- Maintain accurate records of shipments within freight management systems.
- Support junior team members by providing guidance on complex logistics issues and documentation.
- Develop and leverage your network of import/export companies to identify new opportunities and streamline processes.
- Assist with unexpected challenges or ad-hoc tasks, demonstrating adaptability and problem-solving skills.
- Ensure all shipments adhere to Incoterms, customs regulations, and compliance standards.
Identify cost-saving opportunities and recommend process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce expenses.
- Collaborate with customs brokers to facilitate smooth clearance processes and resolve issues promptly.
- Monitor and report on the status of shipments, providing proactive updates to clients and internal teams.
- Educate colleagues and clients on logistics best practices, regulations, and documentation requirements to enhance overall understanding.
- Assist in the development and implementation of logistics policies and procedures.
- Evaluate and select transportation providers based on service quality and cost-effectiveness.
- Maintain a thorough understanding of global trade regulations, tariffs, and compliance requirements, keeping the team updated on relevant changes.
- Assist in the preparation of customs declarations and duty calculations when required.

Requirements

- Minimum of 5 years' experience in international freight forwarding, both air and sea.
- Strong existing relationships with import/export companies and logistics service providers.
- Deep knowledge of customs procedures, freight documentation, and international trade regulations.
- Excellent negotiation, communication, and stakeholder management skills.
- Ability to adapt quickly, support various tasks as needed, and solve problems proactively.
- High attention to detail, especially regarding compliance documentation and regulatory requirements.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities.
- Open-minded and flexible attitude, willing to assist with miscellaneous tasks outside core responsibilities.
- Proficiency in freight management systems.
- Willingness to share knowledge, educate colleagues, and promote understanding of logistics processes across the organization.

Additional desirable skills:

- Experience with freight cost analysis and budgeting.
- Knowledge of warehousing and distribution processes.

Additional Information

This position is based full-time on-site in Cape Town. Applicants should be prepared to commute reliably or plan for relocation before starting.

Note:

A relevant diploma or degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or International Trade is

not a must

but considered a plus.

Questions Upon Application

- What are your salary expectations?
- Do you have an established network of companies involved in frequent import/export activities?

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Temporary
Contract length: 6 months

Work Location: In person