Commercial Manager - Reefer Department (Imports & Exports)
Job Type: Full-time Location: reports in to Felixstowe but candidate can be based anywhere in UK (National travel required) Salary: GBP40,000 to GBP50,000, plus performance-related
We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Commercial Manager to lead and develop our refrigerated cargo services across both import and export markets.
This role is responsible for managing the full commercial performance of the Reefer department, driving revenue growth, developing strategic customer relationships, and expanding our presence within specialist temperature-controlled markets.
Working closely with Commercial and Operations teams, you will ensure commercially sound, operationally deliverable solutions for refrigerated cargo moving into and out of the UK.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the commercial strategy and revenue growth for the Reefer department across imports and exports, in line with the company's 5-year Business Plan
- Develop new import and export business while strengthening relationships with existing customers
- Sell specialised refrigerated solutions for UK import and export movements, including time-critical, high-value, and sensitive cargo
- Maintain a strong national sales presence, with regular client visits across the UK
- Conduct high-quality sales calls and achieve a targeted number of customer meetings each month
- Manage and support import and export tenders, including work with direct shippers, freight forwarders, and NGOs
- Represent the business at industry events, trade fairs, and exhibitions relevant to refrigerated import and export markets
- Oversee customer opportunity management within the CRM system to build and maintain an active import and export sales pipeline
- Produce quotations and manage customer rate structures for key and VIP customers across both trade lanes
- Provide commercial key account management for assigned customers with importing and exporting requirements
- Support budget preparation and contribute to the annual Sales Plan in collaboration with senior leadership
- Work closely with Operations to ensure commercially viable, compliant, and operationally deliverable import and export solutions
Skills & Experience Required
- Proven experience in a commercial, account management, or sales role within freight, logistics, or supply chain
- Strong understanding of refrigerated cargo across both import and export markets
- Demonstrated ability to manage key accounts and develop long-term commercial relationships
- Comfortable operating in a national field-based role, with flexibility for occasional overseas travel
- Confident negotiating contracts, rates, and commercial terms
- Experience using CRM systems to manage sales pipelines and forecasting
- Professional, customer-focused approach with strong communication skills
- Ability to manage confidential and sensitive commercial information responsibly
- Proactive, commercially minded, and cost-conscious
- Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and deliver against targets
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary with performance-based bonus potential
- Opportunity to lead and shape a specialist Reefer Imports & Exports department
- Career development within a growing and dynamic business
- Exposure to international supply chains and high-profile customers
- Participation in trade fairs, exhibitions, and industry events
- Supportive and collaborative working environment
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