Senior Ocean Freight Forwarding Manager

Yusen Logistics • Torrance, CA

59d • $105,628 - $185,582

About The Position

The Sr. Ocean Freight Forwarding Manager is a key leader within the Freight Forwarding branch, responsible for the strategic direction, operational execution, and regulatory compliance of all ocean freight services (FCL, LCL, import/export). This role oversees the full life cycle of ocean shipments and leads cross-functional teams to deliver efficient, cost-effective, and customer-focused logistics solutions. The position serves as the subject matter expert in ocean freight operations, with accountability for driving performance, improving processes, and maintaining strong carrier and customer relationships.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Business, Logistics, or related field
• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in ocean freight forwarding (import/export), including at least 5 years in a supervisory or management role
• Deep knowledge of U.S. and international import/export regulations, including FMC, AES, ISF, and customs compliance.
• Proven experience managing high-volume ocean operations with a focus on efficiency, profitability, and customer success.
• Strong leadership, communication, and decision-making skills with a track record of cross-functional collaboration and change management.
• Proficiency in TMS, ERP, and shipping software systems (e.g., CargoWise, SAP, Descartes) and data-driven decision-making tools.
• Skilled in data management, KPI analysis, and reporting.
• Effective communication and presentation skills for engaging internal and external stakeholders.
• Experience with logistics systems and software
• Strong organizational, planning, and problem-solving abilities
• Ability to lift up to 50lbs
• Ability to travel overnight up to 10%
• Ability to travel to the office and meet in-office requirements
• Ability to identify operational risks and improvement opportunities.
• Capable of working in a high-pressure, dynamic logistics environment.
• Ability to work flexible hours to accommodate international time zones.
• Ability to work in an office environment majority of the time.
• Complete and assist with the completion of assigned tasks/projects in a timely manner.
• Comply with all Company policies and procedures

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and oversight for all ocean freight operations, ensuring alignment with corporate goals, compliance regulations, and customer expectations.
• Design, implement, and continuously enhance operational process flows, SOPs, and KPIs across branches to drive efficiency, quality, and customer satisfaction.
• Partner with executive and sales leadership to develop and refine customer-specific ocean logistics solutions, especially during customer onboarding or major transitions.
• Lead the development of scalable consolidation strategies across branches to achieve operational efficiency and cost savings.
• Negotiate high-level carrier and agent agreements to maximize service levels and profitability; proactively analyze market trends and make data-driven decisions to optimize routing and vendor utilization.
• Partner with finance and branch leadership, review account-level profitability, recommending adjustments to improve margin and operational performance.
• Oversee shipment accounting functions, ensuring accurate revenue recognition, cost allocation, and timely financial reporting.
• Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and emerging risks to guide operational adjustments and ensure regulatory compliance across teams.
• Ensure compliance with international and domestic shipping regulations, including training and certifying team members on updates and best practices.
• Lead claim resolution processes, while maintaining positive customer relationships
• Lead and mentor a team of Ocean NVOCC Managers, Ocean Export Supervisors, and cross-functional staff. Ensure alignment of departmental goals with company strategy, promoting accountability, collaboration, and professional growth.
• Conduct talent assessments, and address performance issues in accordance with company policies.

Benefits

• Medical, Dental, and Vision beginning the 1 st of the month following start date
• 401k with a company match
• Flexible Spending Accounts, Life and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Insurance, Short & Long Term Disability, Tuition Assistance Program, Commuter Benefits, vacation , and much more.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees