Freight Forwarding Supervisor

Position Overview We are seeking an experienced and result-driven Freight Forwarding Supervisor to oversee and optimize our multi-modal transport operations (Air, Sea, and Road). Based in the UAE, the successful candidate will manage end-to-end freight movements with a strong operational emphasis on cross-border logistics between the UAE, KSA , and the broader GCC region , while seamlessly handling international import and export shipments. In this role, you will lead daily operational workflows, manage carrier and vendor relationships, enforce customs compliance, and ensure timely, cost-effective, and damage-free cargo deliveries. Key Responsibilities 1. Multi-Modal Operational Leadership (Air, Sea & Road) • End-to-End Operations: Supervise daily operations for Air Freight (Import/Export), Ocean Freight (FCL/LCL), and Road Freight (FTL/LTL) across regional and global routes. • GCC Focus: Coordinate cross-border road freight operations linking the UAE, Saudi Arabia (KSA), and other GCC countries, ensuring proper land transport documentation, border passage clearance, and transit time optimization. • Carrier & Vendor Management: Negotiate competitive freight rates, space allocations, and service level agreements (SLAs) with shipping lines, airlines, land transport fleets, and 3PL/4PL partners. • Shipment Routing & Tracking: Design optimal transit routes, monitor consignment movements in real time, and proactively resolve operational delays, route disruptions, or port congestion. 2. Customs Clearance & Regulatory Compliance • GCC Customs Regulations: Maintain up-to-date knowledge of UAE, KSA (ZATCA / Masaar / FASA), and GCC customs clearance regulations, tariffs, SASO/SABER standards, and land border procedures (e.g., Al Batha, Khatmat Malaha). • Documentation Supervision: Ensure full accuracy and compliance for all shipping documentation, including Bills of Lading (B/L), Air Waybills (AWB), Certificates of Origin (COO), Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, and Transit Customs Declarations. 3. Process Optimization • Customer Service & Client Escalations: Serve as the primary escalation point for major key accounts, providing transparent updates, delay notifications, and dispute resolution. • Cost Control & Margin Optimization: Monitor shipment profitability, review vendor invoices, audit freight charges, and identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising delivery timelines. • System & Process Management: Utilize Freight Management Systems (FMS) and ERP tools to update booking statuses, generate operational reports, and streamline operational workflows. Required Qualifications and Experience • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. • Experience: Minimum of 5–7 years of progressive freight forwarding experience. • Regional & International Expertise: • In-depth operational experience in the GCC Region , especially UAE and Saudi Arabia (KSA) logistics markets. • Proven expertise in GCC cross-border road transport alongside international Air and Ocean freight execution. • Technical & Regulatory Knowledge: • Comprehensive understanding of UAE (Mirsal II / Dubai Customs) and KSA customs clearance protocols. • Deep familiarity with shipping line/airline contracts, and international trade laws. • Software Skills: Proficiency in Freight Management Systems, ERP software, and Microsoft Office Suite (advanced Excel). • Languages: Full professional proficiency in English is required. Key Competencies • Problem-Solving & Agility: Strong ability to resolve complex customs holds, border delays, and carrier capacity bottlenecks under tight deadlines. • Negotiation Skills: Proven ability to negotiate favorable freight rates and credit terms with carriers and transport vendors. • Communication: Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to build and maintain strong vendor and client relationships.