Ocean Freight Executive

We are looking for a detail-oriented and motivated Ocean Freight Executive to manage daily sea freight import and export operations. The ideal candidate will possess strong knowledge of international shipping procedures, freight documentation, shipment coordination, and effective communication with shipping lines, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and customers. This role requires a proactive approach to ensure smooth and timely movement of cargo while maintaining compliance with international trade regulations.

Key Responsibilities

- Coordinate ocean freight import and export shipments, handling both Full Container Load (FCL) and Less than Container Load (LCL) cargo.
- Arrange shipment bookings with shipping lines and freight forwarders to secure space and optimize schedules.
- Prepare, review, and process shipping documents such as Bills of Lading, commercial invoices, packing lists, and shipping instructions accurately.
- Monitor vessel schedules, shipment status, Estimated Time of Departure (ETD), Estimated Time of Arrival (ETA), and cargo delivery timelines. Address customs holds, documentation discrepancies, and cargo release requirements to avoid delays.
- Negotiate freight rates, free time, and applicable accessorial charges to optimize transportation costs.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with freight service providers to ensure reliable service and competitive pricing.
- Identify and implement opportunities to reduce demurrage, detention, storage, and other avoidable logistics expenses.
- Ensure documentation accuracy and compliance with international trade regulations, Incoterms, and customs requirements.
- Collaborate with freight forwarders and shipping lines to confirm cargo acceptance and compliance with IMDG Code requirements for hazardous materials.
- Resolve shipment delays, documentation discrepancies, demurrage, and detention issues promptly.
- Obtain and evaluate competitive ocean freight quotations from shipping lines, NVOCCs, and freight forwarders; analyze freight costs, carrier performance, transit times, and routing alternatives.
- Coordinate effectively with shipping lines, overseas agents, customs brokers, transporters, and customers to ensure seamless operations.
- Follow up on customs clearance, cargo release, container delivery, and empty container returns.
- Verify freight invoices and liaise with the accounts department regarding payments and outstanding charges.
- Maintain accurate shipment records and update internal systems and operational reports on a weekly and monthly basis.
- Ensure compliance with company procedures and applicable shipping and international trade regulations.
- Provide timely shipment updates and respond professionally to customer inquiries.
- Coordinate with suppliers and internal stakeholders to obtain Safety Data Sheets (SDS) and other required shipping documentation.
- Work closely with procurement, sales, warehouse, finance, and logistics teams to ensure smooth shipment execution.

Required Qualifications

- Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or a related field is preferred.
- Previous experience in ocean freight, shipping, logistics, or freight forwarding is advantageous.
- Strong understanding of international shipping documentation, Incoterms, customs procedures, and container logistics.
- Familiarity with U.S. import/export procedures and major international shipping routes.
- Demonstrated ability to negotiate freight rates and manage transportation costs effectively.
- Knowledge of FCL/LCL shipments, shipping documentation, and Incoterms.
- Familiarity with import and export procedures and customs clearance processes.
- Excellent communication, coordination, and problem-solving skills.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel.
- Ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously and meet strict deadlines.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits

- 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in ocean freight or logistics is preferred.
- Strong skills in ocean freight operations, import/export coordination, freight forwarding, shipping documentation, logistics coordination, and customer service.

This is a full-time position offering the opportunity to work in a dynamic environment where attention to detail and operational excellence are highly valued. Candidates interested in this role are encouraged to submit their CV along with details of their relevant experience in ocean freight and logistics.