The Assistant Shipping Manager is responsible for overseeing the end-to-end shipping process, ensuring timely and efficient coordination from various ports of origin. The role requires proactive liaison with customers, carriers, and forwarders to ensure that shipping schedules are strictly adhered to and any potential disruptions are promptly managed.
The successful candidate will also be tasked with securing competitive freight rates and managing vessel space availability to optimise cost and resource utilisation. The successful candidate plays a pivotal role in coaching and working with team members, fostering a culture of compliance and continuous improvement against established standards. Additionally, the individual will assist the department manager in monitoring key performance indicators, supporting initiatives that drive cost control and operational efficiency.
Responsibilities:
- Oversee and manage all aspects of shipping operations, including LCL shipments and container shipments
- Address country-specific needs by negotiating terms such as space allocation, demurrage, and detention free time with carriers
- Prepare shipping schedules, monitor shipment progress, and address any post shipment operational issues
- Coordinate with internal departments to streamline shipping processes
- Perform spot vessel chartering (spot rates) and freight optimization (sea vs air)
- Set and monitor KPIs (forecast vs. actual volume, cost performance, service compliance)
- Ensure compliance with shipping regulations, accurate customs declarations, and documentation based on the requirements of overseas partners
- Ensure correct posting of inventory movements within the ERP system and correct pricing for invoicing
- Review existing process flow to streamline tasks, improve consistency, and enhance productivity
- Participate in system testing, SOP updates, and process harmonization projects
- Identify areas for process improvement, cost reduction, and increased customer satisfaction
- Provide support for new product launches, distribution initiatives (pre-orders, global WH), and supply chain sustainability projects (optimized routing, CO2 emissions, waste management)
- Participate in annual stock take and audits, and address issues raised by the external auditing firm
- Undertake any other duties as required by the reporting manager
Experience:
- Minimum diploma in a related field; Supply Chain, Logistics, Operations Management
- 6 years of relevant work experience with 3 years of experience in individual coaching/team management
- Proficiency in SAP, Microsoft Office suite, in particular Microsoft Excel, with knowledge of VBA
- Strong understanding of import/export/cross trade processes
- Experience in trade compliance and shipping documents (LC / Form D / CO)
- Hands-on, attention to detail with good time management & adaptability skills