Head of Sea Freight

A leading global logistics provider is seeking a Head of Sea Freight to deliver strategic and operational leadership for their thriving sea freight business in Bangkok. This pivotal role offers you the opportunity to shape the future of sea freight operations, driving commercial growth, service excellence, and sustainable profitability. You will be at the forefront of developing robust customer and carrier partnerships, ensuring that the organisation remains a trusted partner in international shipping. With a focus on collaboration, team development, and compliance with global standards, this position provides an exciting platform for you to make a significant impact within a supportive and knowledgeable environment. Flexible working opportunities and a commitment to professional growth are just some of the benefits awaiting you as you take your career to new heights.

What you'll do:

• Define and implement comprehensive strategies for sea freight operations that align with broader regional and global business goals, ensuring long-term success and market relevance.
• Oversee all aspects of end-to-end sea freight operations including import, export, and cross-trade activities, maintaining high standards of service delivery and operational efficiency.
• Drive revenue growth by developing effective pricing strategies, negotiating with carriers, and optimising capacity planning to maximise profitability.
• Collaborate closely with Sales and Key Account teams to design competitive logistics solutions tailored to meet diverse customer needs while enhancing overall client satisfaction.
• Take full ownership of financial performance by managing budgeting processes, forecasting future trends, controlling costs, and delivering on key performance indicators.
• Establish and nurture strategic relationships with carriers while developing procurement frameworks that reinforce the organisation’s market positioning.
• Ensure strict adherence to international shipping regulations, trade laws, and corporate governance standards to maintain compliance across all operations.
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team by fostering a culture of succession planning, continuous improvement, and shared achievement.
• Promote best practices in operational excellence through regular process reviews, risk assessments, and implementation of innovative solutions.
• Champion sustainability initiatives within sea freight operations to support environmental responsibility and long-term business viability.

What you bring:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Maritime Studies or a related discipline is required; a Master’s degree is considered advantageous for this senior position.
• A minimum of 10 years’ experience working within Sea or Ocean Freight environments such as Freight Forwarding companies, Shipping Lines, NVOCCs or Global Logistics organisations is essential.
• Demonstrated track record in leading large operational teams as well as commercial units within complex logistics settings is highly valued.
• Comprehensive understanding of international trade regulations including Incoterms along with deep expertise in carrier management practices is necessary.
• Proven experience managing profit & loss accounts coupled with strong commercial insight into market dynamics is expected from candidates at this level.
• Fluency in Thai and English (both written and verbal) is mandatory; proficiency in additional languages would be beneficial for engaging diverse stakeholders.
• Exceptional interpersonal skills enabling effective collaboration across departments while nurturing positive relationships internally and externally are important.
• Ability to develop strategic procurement frameworks that enhance market competitiveness while supporting organisational objectives is sought after.
• Experience implementing compliance programmes aligned with global shipping standards ensures smooth regulatory navigation throughout operations.
• A passion for mentoring others combined with a commitment to fostering inclusive team cultures focused on shared success rounds out the ideal profile.

What sets this company apart:

This organisation stands out as one of the world’s most recognised names in global logistics. With a presence spanning continents it offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth supported by comprehensive training resources flexible working arrangements generous pension contributions (where applicable) and access to cutting-edge technology platforms. The company places great emphasis on creating an inclusive environment where every voice matters. Employees benefit from being part of a knowledgeable network led by supportive leaders who prioritise wellbeing work-life balance professional advancement making it an exceptional place for those passionate about shaping the future of supply chain management.

What's next:

If you are ready to take on this rewarding challenge as Head of Sea Freight we invite you to bring your expertise passion for teamwork and vision for growth into an environment where your contributions truly matter.

Apply today by clicking on the link provided—your next career milestone awaits!

Due to the high volume of applications, our team will only be in touch if your application is shortlisted.

Robert Walters Recruitment (Thailand) Limited
Recruitment License No.: น. 1188 / 2551