Operations Manager – Logistics (Freight Forwarding)

About the role

A logistics company with established operations in the Middle East and an expanding presence in East Africa is recruiting an Operations Manager in Kampala. The role oversees and coordinates all Freight Forwarding operations, including Air, Sea, Road Freight and Customs Clearance, and provides leadership across ICD, JKIA and Mombasa Port operations.

Key responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day freight forwarding operations, ensuring timely, efficient and compliant service delivery.
• Coordinate workflows across ICD, JKIA and Mombasa Port while adhering to customs, statutory and regulatory requirements.
• Review, approve and monitor shipment documentation, pre-alerts, operational invoices and customs clearance processes.
• Maintain relationships with clients, customs authorities, shipping lines, airlines and ground handlers to resolve shipment issues.
• Develop, implement and monitor departmental procedures, KPIs and compliance standards in line with company policies and ISO requirements.
• Lead, mentor and evaluate the operations team.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management or a related field, with a Diploma in Clearing & Forwarding or equivalent.
• Minimum 5 years' experience in freight forwarding and customs clearance, including at least 2 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Prior experience in the logistics sector.

Required skills

• Strong knowledge of freight forwarding, customs legislation, tariffs, import/export documentation and Kenyan port and bond procedures.
• Leadership, problem-solving and team management skills.
• Client relationship management and communication skills.
• Computer literacy and the ability to work under pressure.