International Forest Products (UK) is one of the world's largest forest products commodities traders and a global leader in the paper and packaging industry. As a subsidiary of the Kraft Group of Companies, IFP boasts a rich legacy spanning sports and entertainment, real estate, paper & packaging, and forest product trading.
IFP operates from its headquarters in Foxborough, Massachusetts, supported by a global network of offices and exclusive sales representatives. Ranked as the fifth largest exporter in the United States, IFP employs around 5,000 people worldwide and embodies the philosophy of "think global, act local" in every aspect of its operations.
We are currently seeking a results-oriented and experienced Transport and Logistics Manager to join our small UK-based team in Berkshire. In this role, you will drive business growth by managing commercial and stakeholder relationships while ensuring the seamless operational execution of freight forwarding services.
This position offers flexible working arrangements, allowing you to be based anywhere in the UK. However, you will be required to attend monthly meetings in London and Newbury, as well as quarterly travel to Europe (Germany, Italy, Spain).
Key Responsibilities:
- Freight procurement for all FTL (full trailer load) movements in Europe
- Negotiating rates with hauliers and communicating / presenting these for internal use
- Freight procurement for all container movements (import or export) from the UK and Europe
- Negotiating rates with Carriers and communicating / presenting these for internal use
- Documenting and presenting freight metrics to the sales group
- Risk management through ongoing understanding of the freight market to guide trade and any logistical based decisions
- Mitigating risk by working with external stakeholders to better IFP's commercial position in the face of cost risk
- Identifying freight opportunities
- Warehouse costings and service agreements at specified locations
- Managing all UK/EU carrier/forwarder/haulier relations to maintain and ensure business cooperation
- Providing value to the company through the commercial acquisition of freight and freight-related opportunities
- Acting as the primary escalation point on all freight-related issues, service and general account management
Skills and Experience:
- A minimum of 2 years' experience in supply chain management or freight forwarding/shipping
- Fundamental understanding of the container freight market
- Innovative use of systems to improve/ease administrative load and manage shipments effectively
- Strong communication and negotiation skills to build and sustain effective business relationships
- Team management skills with a focus on achieving successful business outcomes
- Problem-solving abilities with an emphasis on delivering creative solutions to clients' logistics challenges
- The ability to manage and mitigate risk
- Experience in commercial and budget management
In return, we offer development opportunities where entrepreneurial thinking is highly valued. We also provide flexible working options, a competitive salary, and a comprehensive benefits package.
Join us and be part of a dynamic team!