Freight Operations Manager Jobs

If you’re highly organised, commercially aware, and thrive in a fast-paced logistics environment, Freight Operations Manager jobs offer a dynamic and rewarding career path within Scotland’s expanding distribution and supply chain sector. These roles are ideal for professionals who enjoy taking responsibility for ensuring goods are moved safely, efficiently, and on time, every time.

We work with experienced logistics professionals and ambitious newcomers ready to advance their careers in freight management, connecting them with leading employers. Whether you’re managing road, air, or sea freight operations, our recruitment specialists can help you secure a role that aligns with your expertise and long-term ambitions.

What Does a Freight Operations Manager Do?

A Freight Operations Manager oversees the transportation, distribution, and logistics functions that keep supply chains running smoothly. They ensure that goods are moved efficiently, customers receive outstanding service, and compliance standards are consistently met across every stage of the operation. Typical responsibilities of a Freight Operations Manager include:

• Overseeing daily freight and logistics operations across multiple transport modes.

• Managing import and export processes, including customs documentation.

• Coordinating transport schedules, routes, and carrier relationships.

• Monitoring shipment performance and resolving delivery issues promptly.

• Managing freight budgets, cost control, and service level agreements.

• Leading and motivating teams of coordinators, drivers, and warehouse staff.

• Ensuring compliance with transport regulations, safety standards, and company policies.

• Building and maintaining relationships with clients, suppliers, and key partners.

Freight Operations Managers play a key role in driving efficiency, reducing costs, and maintaining customer satisfaction within busy logistics networks, making them indispensable to Scotland’s thriving transport and distribution industry.

Skills and Qualities for Freight Operations Manager Jobs

To succeed as a Freight Operations Manager, you’ll need excellent organisational and leadership skills, alongside a deep understanding of supply chain processes and transport logistics. Employers value professionals who can handle complex challenges, meet tight deadlines, and deliver results with precision and professionalism. Key skills and qualities include:

• Proven experience in freight forwarding, transport, or logistics management.

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

• Excellent communication and negotiation skills.

• Sound knowledge of import/export regulations and customs procedures.

• Proficiency in logistics management software and transport planning tools.

• Commercial awareness and a proactive approach to problem-solving.

• Ability to analyse data, track KPIs, and implement process improvements.

• A commitment to safety, compliance, and quality assurance.

Qualifications in logistics, supply chain management, or transport operations can strengthen your application, though hands-on experience and a results-driven mindset are equally valuable in this sector.

Training and Career Progression

Working as a Freight Operations Manager provides fantastic opportunities for professional development and progression within Scotland’s distribution and supply chain industry. With the right experience and strategic insight, you can advance into senior operational or directorial positions such as:

• Head of Freight or Logistics

• Supply Chain Manager

• Operations Director

• National or Regional Logistics Manager

• General Manager – Distribution

Ongoing training in leadership, customs compliance, and digital supply chain technologies can further enhance your skills and open doors to high-level roles within global logistics and freight forwarding companies.

Explore Freight Operations Manager jobs in Scotland with Stafffinders today.