Freight Forwarding Manager - Import Operations

Location: Clearwater, FL
Job Type: Full-Time
Salary: Competitive, based on experience

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced Freight Forwarding Manager to oversee import operations and help lead the day-to-day activities of a growing logistics team. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in international freight forwarding, with a primary focus on ocean and air imports, customs coordination, documentation, and customer service.

This is a hands-on management position for someone who understands the full import process and can effectively manage customers, vendors, carriers, and internal operations while ensuring shipments move efficiently and accurately.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage and oversee international import shipments from origin through final delivery.

• Coordinate ocean and air freight shipments, including documentation, booking, tracking, and delivery.

• Manage relationships with customers, overseas agents, carriers, customs brokers, and other logistics partners.

• Review and ensure accuracy of import documentation, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, arrival notices, and customs-related paperwork.

• Monitor shipment status and proactively resolve delays, discrepancies, and operational issues.

• Ensure compliance with applicable import regulations and company procedures.

• Provide guidance and support to freight forwarding staff and coordinate daily workloads.

• Train, mentor, and oversee team members as needed.

• Handle escalated customer issues and maintain strong customer relationships.

• Review operational processes and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and service quality.

• Assist with pricing, quotations, and account management when required.

• Track shipment performance, costs, and operational KPIs.

• Work closely with sales and operations teams to support business growth and customer retention.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience in freight forwarding/logistics, with significant import experience.

• Strong knowledge of international import operations, particularly ocean freight.

• Previous supervisory, lead, or management experience preferred.

• Experience working with freight forwarders, NVOCCs, customs brokers, carriers, or international logistics providers.

• Strong understanding of import documentation and international shipping procedures.

• Excellent communication and customer service skills.

• Strong organizational and problem-solving abilities.

• Ability to manage multiple shipments, customers, and priorities simultaneously.

• Proficiency with Microsoft Office and freight forwarding/logistics software.

• Experience with customs clearance and compliance is a strong plus.

Ideal Candidate

The ideal candidate would be someone who has progressed beyond a traditional Import Coordinator position and is ready to take ownership of an import operation or team. They should be comfortable being hands-on with shipments while also providing leadership and direction to other employees.

Key focus: Import experience + freight forwarding expertise + leadership/management capability.