Logistics Manager

About the Role Global Alliance Group DMCC is seeking an experienced and hands-on Logistics Manager to manage the company's end-to-end international logistics and supply chain operations for its polymer trading business. The role will be responsible for coordinating import, export and cross-trade shipments across multiple regions, managing shipping lines, NVOCCs, freight forwarders, agents and suppliers, while ensuring timely and cost-efficient delivery of cargo to customers. The ideal candidate should have strong experience in international shipping, freight forwarding, container logistics, import/export operations and polymer/chemical or commodity trading environments, with the ability to independently manage multiple shipments (Approx 300 containers 40’ HC monthly) and resolve operational issues under tight deadlines. Key Responsibilities International Logistics & Shipping • Manage end-to-end logistics operations for import, export and cross-trade shipments. • Plan and coordinate container shipments from origin to final destination. • Coordinate with suppliers, customers, shipping lines, NVOCCs, freight forwarders, transporters and destination agents. • Monitor vessel schedules, ETD/ETA, transshipment movements, rollovers, port congestion and potential delays. • Ensure cargo is loaded on nominated vessels within agreed timelines and avoid missed sailings. • Obtain and negotiate competitive ocean freight rates and negotiate free time, detention, demurrage, DTHC and other origin/destination charges. Documentation & Trade Operations • Coordinate shipping documentation including: o Commercial Invoice o Packing List o Bill of Lading / Sea Waybill/ Surrender/ Telex release /Switch B/L o Shipping Instructions o Certificate of Origin o ECTN and other destination-specific documentation o Customs and clearance documents • Review shipping documents for accuracy and ensure timely submission to shipping lines, agents and customers. • Coordinate CRO issuance, container allocation and loading instructions. • Coordinate Letter of Credit shipments and ensure logistics documentation is aligned with LC requirements. Freight & Cost Management • Negotiate ocean freight and local logistics charges with shipping lines, NVOCCs and freight forwarders. • Develop and maintain strong relationships with key logistics service providers. • Monitor freight market movements and identify cost-saving opportunities. • Review freight quotations and ensure agreed rates are correctly applied. • Control logistics costs and identify unnecessary charges, including demurrage, detention, storage and cancellation charges. • Maintain shipment-wise logistics cost records and support management with cost analysis and reporting. • Negotiate commercial terms such as free time, destination charges, container deposits and payment conditions. Supplier & Customer Coordination • Coordinate closely with suppliers to ensure production, cargo readiness and loading schedules are aligned with vessel cut-oƯs. • Follow up with suppliers and their logistics teams to secure early loading and avoid missed vessels. • Coordinate with customers regarding shipment schedules, documentation and delivery requirements. • Proactively communicate delays, vessel changes, port congestion and other potential disruptions. Destination & Agent Management • Manage logistics operations across key markets including UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Djibouti, Africa, Europe, CIS and other international destinations. • Coordinate with destination agents regarding customs clearance, delivery orders, container deposits, free time and final delivery. • Monitor destination charges and challenge discrepancies where required. • Ensure timely release and delivery of containers to minimize detention, demurrage and storage exposure. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Business, Commerce or a related field 5+ years of experience in international logistics, shipping, freight forwarding or supply chain operations Experience in polymer, petrochemical, chemical, commodity trading or a similar environment is preferred Strong knowledge of import, export and cross-trade operations. • Experience dealing directly with shipping lines, NVOCCs, freight forwarders and overseas agents. Strong knowledge of UAE logistics and major ports, including Jebel Ali, Khalifa Port, Khorfakkan and Fujairah Experience with international destinations including Saudi Arabia, India, Djibouti, Africa, Europe and CIS markets is an advantage Strong freight negotiation, vendor management, Strong Excel and ERP skills.