Import Operations & Business Development Manager

Introduction

We are looking for an experienced and commercially minded Durban Import Operations & Business Development Manager to establish and develop our South Africa import B-segment operations in Durban.

The successful candidate will be responsible for building the operational foundation of the business from the ground up, including identifying and establishing relationships with suitable off-port yards, shipping lines, shipping agents, consignees and other relevant service providers.

This is a hands-on role requiring strong industry knowledge, commercial awareness, communication skills and the ability to independently establish and manage relationships across the Durban logistics and port ecosystem.

The successful candidate will be expected to progressively establish a reliable Durban import B-segment operating network, including:

• Suitable and reliable off-port yard capacity;

• Effective relationships with shipping lines and shipping agents;

• Clear and efficient communication channels with consignees;

• Reliable operational SOPs and processes;

• A qualified and responsive service-provider network; and

• A stable operational model capable of handling increasing import volumes.

This position requires someone who can build the operation, establish the relationships and make the model work in practice , rather than simply manage an existing operation.

Duties & Responsibilities

1. Operational Setup & Development

• Establish the operational model for import B-segment cargo in Durban.

• Identify, evaluate and establish suitable off-port yards and storage facilities.

• Develop the required operational processes, SOPs and coordination mechanisms.

• Establish a reliable network of operational service providers to support the business.

• Identify potential operational risks and develop practical solutions before cargo operations commence.

2. Shipping Line & Shipping Agent Coordination

• Establish and maintain direct working relationships with shipping lines and shipping agents.

• Coordinate vessel, discharge, release and cargo collection arrangements.

• Follow up on vessel schedules, cargo availability, documentation and release status.

• Ensure smooth communication between shipping lines, shipping agents, yards, consignees and our internal team.

• Resolve operational issues and delays in a timely manner.

3. Yard Management & Coordination

• Source and negotiate with suitable off-port yards in Durban.

• Evaluate yard capacity, location, handling capability, security, equipment and commercial terms.

• Establish operating procedures between the yard and relevant parties.

• Monitor cargo receiving, storage, handling and release activities.

• Ensure the selected yard can support the required cargo volumes and operational requirements.

4. Consignee & Customer Coordination

• Establish effective working relationships with consignees and relevant customer contacts.

• Understand consignee requirements, delivery schedules and cargo handling procedures.

• Coordinate cargo collection and delivery arrangements.

• Ensure all parties are aligned on operational timelines and responsibilities.

• Handle operational escalations and provide practical solutions.

5. Business Development

• Develop and maintain a strong network within the Durban port and logistics industry.

• Identify new operational resources, service providers and potential business opportunities.

• Build long-term relationships with shipping lines, shipping agents, yards, transporters and other logistics partners.

• Support management in developing the Durban import B-segment business model and commercial strategy.

6. Operational Control & Reporting

• Monitor daily import operations and ensure that cargo moves according to the agreed schedule.

• Track vessel arrival, discharge, cargo release, yard receiving and collection status.

• Provide regular operational updates and identify potential delays or risks in advance.

• Maintain accurate operational records and reports.

• Continuously identify opportunities to improve service quality, efficiency and cost.

Desired Experience & Qualification

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in freight forwarding, shipping, port operations, logistics or supply chain.

• Strong knowledge of Durban port and the South African import logistics environment .

• Existing relationships with shipping lines, shipping agents, yards and other logistics service providers will be highly advantageous.

• Proven ability to establish new business relationships and operational networks independently.

• Strong negotiation, communication and problem-solving skills.

• Commercially minded with the ability to understand both operational requirements and cost implications.

• Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple stakeholders simultaneously.

• Able to work independently and take ownership of establishing a new operational function.

• Strong English communication skills, both written and verbal.

Package & Remuneration

Market related.