Senior Airfreight Operator

Your tasks

You’ll own inbound air cargo from the moment it lands until it reaches the customer’s door. Clients and overseas partners will rely on you for clear customs advice and sharp pricing. This role suits someone who knows UK import clearance inside out and enjoys the commercial side of the job.

_Keeping freight moving_

• Track inbound flights and act on pre-alerts as soon as they arrive.
• Book uplifts from the airport and plan the final leg to the consignee.
• Review AWBs, invoices and packing lists before cargo arrives.
• Spot delays or paperwork gaps early and fix them before they become problems.
• Work closely with airlines, ground handlers, brokers, transport partners and clients.
• Hit agreed delivery windows, every time.

_Being the customs expert_

• Guide clients and agents through UK import rules, duty and import VAT.
• Get to the bottom of any hold-ups at clearance.
• Apply the correct tariff codes, valuation, origin and Incoterms.
• Stay on top of changes to HMRC rules and pass on what matters.

_Pricing and profit_

• Build destination quotes for clients and overseas offices.
• Source costs from handlers, hauliers and other suppliers.
• Get the detail right: chargeable weight, surcharges, delivery costs and margin.
• Turn quotes around quickly and chase them up.
• Support the sales team and agent network to win new business.
• Check that every job makes money and that buy and sell rates are logged correctly.

_Looking after people_

• Be the go-to contact for clients and international partners.
• Keep everyone informed on arrival, clearance and delivery status.
• Give practical, straightforward advice.
• Build lasting relationships with clients, suppliers and agents.
• Handle problems calmly and professionally.

_Keeping files in order_

• Keep the operating system up to date on every shipment.
• Match supplier bills to the right jobs.
• Invoice customers quickly and accurately.
• Keep an eye on storage, demurrage and other avoidable extras.
• Close files in line with internal procedures.

Requirements

What you’ll bring

• At least two years in an air import operations role at a freight forwarder.
• In-depth knowledge of UK import clearance and the paperwork behind it.
• Hands-on experience with CDS, import declarations, tariff classification, duty and VAT.
• A track record of building and sending quotes.
• Experience managing shipments end to end, from landing to delivery.
• A good grasp of job costing, margins and profitability.
• Confident communication and negotiation skills, with a strong customer focus.
• The ability to juggle a busy workload and prioritise well.
• A sharp eye for detail and a can-do attitude to problem-solving.
• Good skills in Microsoft Office and freight management systems.