Branch Manager –Seafreight

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Branch Manager –Seafreight

Role: Branch Manager – Seafreight (Durban sea freight branch)

Client (likely): Rohlig-Grindrod (document references client brand)

Reports to: Director: Seafreight Document last updated: 2024-02-27 (REV NO 01)

Purpose: Manage branch operations to deliver cost-effective freight forwarding and clearing services, achieve client satisfaction and drive branch profitability.

Key responsibilities: - Operational leadership: ensure world-class service, monitor market trends, implement SOPs, drive customer centricity and branch innovation.

- People management: recruit, develop, coach and retain staff; enforce performance management and disciplinary processes; maintain balance scorecard and KPIs; manage employee engagement.

- Financial management: own branch budgets, cost control, debtor management, monthly P&L review, GP targets, yield management and forecasting.

- Sales & client servicing: lead retention and growth strategies, manage key supplier relationships, respond to escalations, implement rate increases, convert uncontrolled business, ensure client onboarding.

- Reporting & compliance: prepare monthly productivity and GP reports, update quarterly balance scorecard, analyse GP per client, identify at-risk business; adhere to ISO2001 and company quality management system. Requirements:

- Minimum: Grade 12 plus FIATA diploma or a 3-year freight forwarding qualification at NQF level 7 (or equivalent).

- Experience: Minimum 10 years in the freight forwarding industry with at least 3 years in a middle management role.

- Competencies: problem solving, decision making, business acumen, financial statement/budget analysis, leadership, communication, planning, change management, attention to detail, customer centricity.

- Systems: computer literate (MS Word, Excel, VIP or similar); knowledge of freight forwarding processes and documentation. Notes for recruiters:

- Candidate must demonstrate proven track record in branch management, P&L responsibility and team leadership within sea freight.

- Confirm qualification equivalence (FIATA or NQF7) and verify 10 years industry experience with references that include middle management responsibilities.

- Highlight experience with ISO/quality systems and financial reporting (GP per client, yield management).

- Client-facing interview likely to include operational, financial and people leadership scenario questions.

- No salary or vacancy closing date provided in brief; confirm client budget and interview/offer timelines before shortlisting.

Objective of the Role:

To manage the branch in a manner that brings about the cost effective and efficient provision of freight forwarding and clearing services resulting in client satisfaction and increased profitability.

Purpose of Position:

To manage the branch in a manner that brings about the cost effective and efficient provision of freight forwarding and clearing services resulting in client satisfaction and increased profitability.

Published 2026/10/20 · Reference jd-ae7ec1012a40d174ea369e58df72d26a