Road Import Operations Manager
Location: Thames Gateway Area
Salary: £45,000 – £48,000
Fully office based
Our client, a well-established freight forwarding business, is looking to appoint a Road Import Operations Manager to join their team in the Basildon area.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced freight forwarding professional with a strong background in import operations, specifically European road freight, who can lead a team, manage operational workflows, oversee customs activity, and help drive commercial performance across the department.
About the Role
As Road Import Operations Manager, you will be responsible for leading and developing the Import Operations function, ensuring the efficient, compliant, and commercially effective management of European road freight imports.
The successful candidate will oversee day-to-day operational workflow, service delivery, financial performance, and cross-departmental coordination. You will also oversee the offshore Customs Processing Team, ensuring declarations are completed accurately and on time, while maintaining strong communication and performance management across both functions.
Main Responsibilities
Lead and manage the Import Operations team, ensuring smooth daily workflow and high service levels
Oversee trailer arrivals, inbound planning, documentation flow, and coordination with internal departments
Manage workflow allocation, staffing levels, annual leave, and sickness absence across the team
Monitor team performance, provide coaching, and support staff development
Ensure departmental processes and SOPs are followed and updated where required
Monitor departmental budgets, margins, and cost controls to support profitability
Ensure accurate invoicing, quote sheets, import spreadsheets, and financial reporting
Provide regular operational and performance updates to senior management
Oversee the offshore Customs Processing Team, ensuring accurate and timely declarations across air, sea, and road freight
Maintain working knowledge of customs procedures, tariff classifications, and duty/VAT principles
Ensure customs data is accurate and maintained in line with HMRC requirements
Act as a key point of contact for operational and customs-related communication
Liaise with overseas agents, customers, hauliers, and internal teams to coordinate shipments and resolve issues
Ensure shipment documentation is created, maintained, and stored correctly
Identify and mitigate operational and customs-related risks
Cross-train and provide cover across the wider department where required
Key Requirements
Significant experience in import operations within a freight forwarding environment
Strong background in European road freight imports is essential
Proven experience leading and managing teams, including workflow allocation, staff development, and performance management
Strong understanding of import operational workflows, including trailer arrivals, inbound planning, and documentation flow
High level of commercial awareness, including budgets, margins, and cost control
Working knowledge of customs procedures, tariff classifications, and duty/VAT principles
Experience liaising with overseas agents and coordinating international shipments
Strong communication and organisational skills
High attention to detail and commitment to compliance and data