Ocean Freight Team Leader – Imports & Exports (Hybrid)

About the role

We are partnering with an international logistics provider to strengthen its Antwerp hub by hiring an Ocean Freight Team Leader. The role blends hands‑on operational oversight of import‑heavy ocean freight with team leadership and commercial responsibilities, ensuring high‑quality service delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Manage end‑to‑end ocean freight operations with a primary focus on imports.
• Lead, coach and support a small team of operations professionals.
• Coordinate daily activities with shipping lines, agents, customs authorities and transport providers.
• Ensure smooth handling of shipments and resolve operational challenges promptly.
• Monitor key performance indicators, service delivery standards and customer satisfaction metrics.
• Act as the main point of contact for customers and internal stakeholders.
• Support commercial initiatives, including client retention and business growth.
• Drive process optimisation and efficiency improvements across the ocean freight function.

Required profile

• Minimum 5 + years of experience in ocean freight forwarding.
• Strong operational knowledge of import and export processes, with an emphasis on imports.
• Prior experience managing a team or demonstrated leadership potential.
• Background in international freight forwarding environments.
• Excellent stakeholder management and problem‑solving abilities.
• Balanced experience in both operational and commercial aspects of freight.
• Fluent in Dutch and English; French is a plus.

Required skills