Sea Freight Manager

Job description / Role

Description

Madar Platform is a leading Saudi digital logistics platform transforming transportation management across industries. It connects shippers, carriers, and logistics partners through a unified ecosystem that delivers visibility, efficiency, and automation. Madar enables seamless shipment execution, financial integration, and real-time tracking — redefining the future of logistics in the Kingdom and beyond.

We are seeking a strategic and experienced Sea Freight Manager to build and lead our sea freight department. In this foundational role, you will be responsible for establishing the full sea freight function, developing operational structures, setting strategic direction, and creating best-practice processes. You will manage relationships with shipping lines and key clients while driving efficiency, service quality, and revenue growth. This role requires close collaboration with other internal teams to ensure seamless integration and strong alignment with overall business objectives.

Role overview

The Sea Freight Manager will establish and lead the sea freight department, overseeing end-to-end import and export operations while ensuring compliance with international trade regulations and customs requirements. The role requires strong expertise in sea freight processes, shipping documentation, port operations, and TMS systems. The manager will optimize workflows, monitor KPIs, solve operational issues, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance efficiency.

Strong leadership, communication, and negotiation skills are essential for managing teams and maintaining key relationships. Candidates should have 5–10 years of relevant experience, a related bachelor’s degree, and preferably professional certifications. Proficiency in English is required, and the ability to perform accurately in a fast-paced environment is key.

Requirements

• Proven experience in managing import and export procedures, customs regulations, and international shipping documentation.
• Previous experience in managing or supervising a logistics team is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of international trade regulations, Incoterms, and port operations.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding and transport management systems (TMS).
• Solid knowledge of shipping line procedures, container tracking, and clearance processes.
• Skilled in preparing and reviewing shipping documents (B/L, invoices, packing lists, etc.).
• Strong problem-solving skills and ability to resolve operational issues under pressure.
• Ability to monitor and interpret performance KPIs and implement improvements.
• Experience working with cross-functional teams to streamline logistics processes.
• Familiarity with cost control and budgeting in freight operations.
• Effective communication and negotiation skills with vendors, clients, and internal stakeholders.
• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency in English; Arabic is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and adapt to changing business needs.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, International Trade, or a related field.
• Professional certifications (e.g., FIATA, CILT, IATA) are a plus.
• 5–10 years of experience in logistics or freight forwarding, with a focus on sea freight operations.