Career Opportunity
Head of North America Ocean Freight Department
Category
Operations
Location
Romeoville, Illinois
Salary
$75,000 - $80,000
Job Reference
54062
Head of North America Ocean Freight Department
Location: Romeoville, IL (Hybrid Potential)
Salary: $75,000 – $80,000
About Our Client
Our client is a well-established global logistics provider expanding its ocean freight operations in North America. With a strong presence in over-the-road and express transport, they are now launching a freight forwarding and NVOCC division to offer end-to-end supply chain solutions.
This newly created role is a unique opportunity for an experienced ocean freight professional to build and lead the department from the ground up, backed by a financially strong and growth-oriented company.
Position Overview
The Head of North America Ocean Freight Department will be responsible for building and scaling the company’s ocean freight operations in the U.S.
This is a hands-on leadership role requiring expertise in import/export logistics, NVOCC operations, and ocean carrier partnerships. The ideal candidate will play a critical role in securing an NVOCC license, developing carrier relationships, onboarding customers, and implementing operational processes for long-term growth.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership of Ocean Freight Division
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Lead the establishment of North American ocean freight operations, including securing the necessary licenses and regulatory approvals.
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Develop and implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for efficient ocean freight forwarding.
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Collaborate with global leadership to align the ocean freight strategy with overall company objectives.
Regulatory & Compliance
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Obtain and maintain NVOCC and OTI licensing for the U.S. market.
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Ensure adherence to Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) regulations and other industry compliance standards.
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Negotiate and establish contracts with carriers, ports, and third-party service providers.
Customer & Carrier Development
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Identify and onboard new customers, leveraging existing industry relationships to drive growth.
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Build and nurture strong partnerships with ocean carriers, freight forwarders, and port authorities to secure competitive rates and ensure capacity.
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Develop pricing models and cost strategies to enhance profitability and drive business success.
Operations & Technology Integration
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Oversee the successful implementation of Logitude CargoWise TMS to streamline freight tracking, documentation, and process automation.
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Design and optimize import/export operations, including container handling, customs clearance, and inland transportation coordination.
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Analyze operational bottlenecks and inefficiencies, proposing data-driven solutions for continuous operational improvements.
Ideal Candidate Profile
Experience
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3+ years of experience in ocean freight forwarding, NVOCC operations, and U.S.-based import/export logistics.
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Proven experience building or scaling ocean freight operations and divisions.
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In-depth knowledge of regulatory compliance, FMC guidelines, and TMS systems such as Logitude CargoWise.
Skills & Leadership Qualities
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Entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for leading and growing new business units.
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Hands-on leadership style, capable of balancing strategic planning with tactical execution.
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Strong negotiation and relationship-building skills, particularly with carriers and customers.
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Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-autonomy role with direct visibility at the executive level.
Why Join Us?
Lead and build a new ocean freight division from the ground up, shaping its future direction. Be part of a financially robust, rapidly expanding logistics company with exciting growth prospects in North America. Join a global organization with ample long-term career advancement opportunities. Enjoy the autonomy to implement your ideas, strategies, and operational frameworks.
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