Location: Christchurch, Canterbury
Job Type: Full time
Salary: $180,000 – $200,000 per year
Strategic Leadership | Operational Excellence | Business Growth
An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and commercially astute General Manager to lead a well-established business operating within the freight forwarding and logistics sector.
Reporting directly to the Managing Director, this is a pivotal leadership appointment with responsibility for driving business performance, operational efficiency and sustainable growth.
We are seeking an accomplished leader who brings a strong understanding of the freight and logistics industry, sound commercial judgement and the ability to lead and develop high-performing teams.
The Opportunity
With oversight across freight forwarding, customs, transport, warehousing and supporting business functions, you will play a key role in shaping the organisation's future direction.
This is a broad leadership position requiring the ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on operational oversight, ensuring the business continues to deliver exceptional service while maximising productivity and profitability.
Key responsibilities will include:
Providing strategic and operational leadership across the business.
Leading, mentoring and developing a team of operational managers and business leaders.
Driving financial performance, profitability, budgeting and commercial decision-making.
Overseeing freight forwarding, import/export, customs, transport and warehousing operations.
Identifying opportunities for operational improvement, efficiency and business growth.
Ensuring compliance with industry regulations, health and safety requirements and operational standards.
Strengthening relationships with key customers, suppliers and industry stakeholders.
Leading continuous improvement initiatives, including systems development, automation and process optimisation.
Working closely with the Managing Director to deliver business objectives and long-term strategic priorities.
About You
You will be an established senior leader with a proven track record of delivering results within a complex, service-driven operational environment.
Ideally, you will bring extensive experience across freight forwarding, international logistics, customs, transport or supply chain management, combined with the commercial capability to influence business performance at a senior level.
To be successful, you will demonstrate:
A minimum of 10 years' experience within freight forwarding, logistics or a closely related industry.
Proven experience in a General Management or senior operational leadership position.
Strong commercial and financial acumen, with experience managing budgets, profitability and business performance.
A sound understanding of international freight forwarding, customs compliance and associated logistics operations.
Demonstrated success in leading managers and multidisciplinary teams.
The ability to develop and implement strategic initiatives while maintaining operational accountability.
Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills.
A proactive, solutions-focused approach, with the confidence to make decisions in a fast-paced environment.
Above all, you will be a confident, credible and engaging leader who can bring people together, establish clear expectations and drive a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.
Why Consider This Opportunity?
This is an opportunity to make a genuine impact within an established business, working closely with the Managing Director and influencing both day-to-day performance and longer-term strategic direction.
The role offers significant breadth, autonomy and the opportunity to contribute to the ongoing development and success of the organisation.
For a commercially focused leader who enjoys the challenges of international freight, logistics and operational management, this represents an excellent next career step.
Apply Now
For a confidential discussion or to express your interest, please contact catherine@grahamconsulting.co.nz or apply online with your CV.
All applications will be treated in strict confidence.