Sea Freight Coordinator

About Alistair Group

Alistair Group is a rapidly expanding service provider across East and Southern Africa, offering diverse logistics solutions including road freight, warehousing, commodity trading, and operational equipment rental. The company is dedicated to driving innovation and business growth with a strong entrepreneurial spirit and currently employs over 1000 staff managing a fleet exceeding 1000 trucks as of 2024. Their services span freight forwarding to ocean freight, servicing industries like mining, oil and gas, agriculture, construction, explosives, and renewables. The company’s vision is to be recognized as the business that enhances Africa’s operational efficiency, underpinned by core values such as honesty, customer orientation, continuous improvement, humility, and safety.

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate sea freight shipments end-to-end for imports and exports.
• Arrange bookings with various shipping lines, consolidators, and freight forwarders while monitoring schedules and shipment milestones to guarantee timely delivery.
• Manage container movements in conjunction with ports, depots, and transport teams for loading and unloading activities.
• Prepare and verify essential sea freight documentation including bills of lading, manifests, commercial invoices, and packing lists, ensuring compliance with customs, port, and international shipping regulations.
• Maintain precise records available for audits and client inquiries.
• Communicate regularly with clients, partners, and internal teams about shipment status and resolve operational challenges with stakeholders like shipping lines and customs brokers.
• Promptly escalate any shipment delays, exceptions, or risks to management.
• Manage and verify freight-related costs such as detention, demurrage, and port fees; assist in invoice validation and identify opportunities for cost reduction.
• Ensure all operations comply with safety, legal, and company standards, including customs clearance support and cargo security monitoring where applicable.
• Compile performance reports on shipments and support management with process enhancements and team coordination, especially during peak times.

Qualifications and Skills

• Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or related field.
• 2 to 3 years of practical experience in sea freight operations involving imports and/or exports.
• Proficient understanding of international sea freight procedures and Incoterms.
• Knowledge of customs processes and port operations is a significant advantage.
• Experience collaborating with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and customs agents.
• Strong communication and effective stakeholder management capabilities.
• Meticulous attention to detail and solid administrative skills.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and work effectively under pressure.

Additional Information

The company holds the unconditional right to discontinue the recruitment process at any stage. Participation in aptitude tests, assessments, or interviews does not guarantee employment and should not be construed as an offer. By submitting an application, candidates consent to the processing of their personal information according to the company's privacy guidelines.