Middelburg: Area Manager: Export Logistics & Shipping

Minimum Qualifications Bachelors Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Operations Management, or International Business A relevant Diploma coupled with a completed Management Development Programme (MDP) or similar leadership qualification Experience Requirements 68 years experience in logistics, export shipping, or supply chain operations Proven experience in people management and consistently achieving operational KPIs Hands-on exposure to: Export shipping coordination and optimisation Carrier selection and route planning Export documentation and compliance Warehouse and staging operations Contract management and supplier negotiations will be highly beneficial Key Competencies & Knowledge Areas The successful candidate will demonstrate strong capability in the following areas: Export & International Trade Compliance Solid understanding of international trade regulations, customs procedures, tariffs, Incoterms, and export documentation Operational & Financial Control Ability to manage freight spend, shipping forecasts, and inventory accountability Strong analytical and problem-solving skills Planning & Execution Excellence High attention to detail with the ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines simultaneously Strong planning, coordination, and organisational capability Stakeholder & Vendor Management Proven negotiation skills with shipping lines, clearing agents, and service providers Effective collaboration across internal departments Systems & Technology Proficiency in MS Office and relevant logistics, shipping, and ERP systems Leadership & Adaptability Agile thinker able to navigate a dynamic global shipping environment Flexible leadership style suited to changing market and regulatory conditions Key Responsibilities Export Operations & Team Management Lead and manage export shipping operations in line with operational targets and business standards Oversee customs-related processes to ensure regulatory compliance Manage export-related claims, insurance matters, and risk mitigation Drive team performance and alignment with broader business objectives Inventory, Shipping & Process Control Manage finished goods inventory in transit or on consignment, aligned to Incoterms Oversee clearing and forwarding service agreements, claims, and insurance processes Coordinate container bookings, break bulk shipments, and chartering activities Ensure effective export warehousing and staging prior to shipment Forecasting, Cost & Performance Management Develop and manage monthly shipping and invoicing forecasts in collaboration with Commercial, Planning, and Finance teams Monitor and control freight and logistics costs Identify opportunities for operational improvement and cost optimisation Stakeholder Engagement Act as the primary interface between internal teams and external logistics partners Translate commercial and operational requirements into effective export solutions