Freight Desk Specialist

Solent Group work with a diverse portfolio of Retailers and supply bespoke products within various categories, including Health & Beauty, Household Impulse Snacking and Reusable Bags. We are proud to be best-in-class when it comes to own-label product innovation. Our Categories are fast-paced with ever-evolving trends and a host of ground-breaking products coming to market on a regular basis – we add value to retailers by leading and owning each category

Here at Solent we want people to be extraordinary. We pride ourselves on creating and producing amazing products and brands for our Global Customers. You will be joining a company with offices globally across South Africa, Hong Kong, Shanghai, Vietnam, and the UK

REPORT TO: Logistics Supervisor

LINE MANAGEMENT: Logistics Administrator

LOCATION: Hybrid (2 days per week in Christchurch, Dorset)

TRAVEL: Yes, UK sites

 

Purpose of the role:

The Freight Desk Specialist reports into the Logistics Supervisor and is supported by the wider operations and supply chain team. You will manage the relationships and service of all freight for Solent whilst also supporting with freight management improvements for Go Superfoods and the Humble Group. This role supports in providing focus on efficient and cost-effective management of ocean, air and road freight, coordinating with suppliers, freight forwarders, hauliers, and internal teams to maintain high standards of delivery performance.

Key Responsibilities:

• People management of direct reports, including: training, development, appraisals, performance management
• Ensure cost effective freight options are available to the wider logistics team, for all lanes globally, that achieve required service and delivery standards
• Pro-actively look to optimise routings and be knowledgeable on any global logistical challenges
• Ensure all shipments comply with transport regulations and customs requirements for international shipping
• Work together with the Humble Group to support their logistics and freight requirements
• Track and report on freight costs
• Invoice checking to ensure accurate vs expected costs
• Cost management of all cost centres related to freight, ensuring service and cost are optimised.
• Develop partner relationships and establish your own key network of contacts with our partners
• Support development of logistics processes, process mapping and work instructions in line with company strategic objectives with regards to environment, quality, customer satisfaction, cost and efficiency.
• Promote an attitude of innovation, pace and intrinsic positivity
• Actively seek to improve skills and knowledge base, via training, site visits and knowledge sharing

About you:

• Proven logistics experience and knowledge
• Dealing with multiple external partners.
• SAP or ERP skills across supply chain and operations functions
• Experience working in a fast-paced operations environment
• Effective time management skills with the ability to prioritize
• Up to date with all legislation regarding road, air and sea transport operations
• FMCG experience advantageous
• Must be flexible, adaptable and positive towards change
• Self-starter who can work off their own initiative
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and initiatives simultaneously
• Possessing the vision, drive and determination to succeed
• Able to communicate clearly and concisely across levels of the organisation
• Willing and able to take ownership, make decisions
• Remain composed, proactive and supportive during high pressure situations

Key competencies and skills:

• Knowledge of EDI
• Cost efficiency
• Customer service
• Attention to detail
• Data analysis & reporting
• MS Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook)
• SAP
• Order processing

What we offer:

• Competitive salary with annual salary reviews
• 25 days holiday per annum, increasing to 27 days after 3 years’ service and 30 days after 5 years’ service
• Extensive benefits programme including buying additional holiday, medical cash plan, access to mental health support and many other benefits
• Flexible hours and work from home available to all staff
• Great learning and development and progression opportunities · Yearly bonus structure (based on company targets)
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity Leave
• Generous Company Sick Pay
• Pension Scheme Contribution
• Solent social events run by our inhouse Social Team
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free parking on Christchurch Quay