Branch Manager — Freight Forwarding (Ocean Freight)

Role Overview

As Branch Manager, you will hold full accountability for the performance, commercial growth, and operational excellence of our Warsaw office. You will lead a multidisciplinary team across ocean freight operations, sales, and customer service - with the autonomy to make real decisions and the support of a global network. This is not a maintenance role. We are looking for a commercially driven leader with a strong operational understanding, who will actively grow the branch’s ocean freight volumes, deepen carrier and client relationships, and build a team culture defined by execution and accountability.

Key Responsibilities

Own and execute the branch business plan, with a strong focus on new business development.

Build, lead, mentor, and develop a team spanning operations, sales, and customer service.

Align branch priorities with regional and global strategy, adapting to the dynamics of the Polish market.

Manage the full branch P&L - monitor performance, control costs, and drive profitability.

Oversee end-to-end ocean freight operations: FCL, LCL, import and export across all major trade lanes.

Build and maintain strong relationships with ocean carriers, NVOCCs, port agents, and customs authorities.

Ensure consistent service quality, on-time performance, and adherence to compliance and documentation standards.

Lead and coach the sales team: review pipelines and support closing of complex or high-value opportunities.

Monitor competitive dynamics, carrier rate movements, and market demand to inform pricing and positioning.

Set clear expectations, provide regular feedback, and create development plans for high-potential team members.

Ensure full compliance with Polish customs regulations, international trade law, and internal company policies.

Collaborate actively with other branches on cross-border shipments, shared accounts, and joint commercial pursuits.

Represent the company at industry events, trade associations, and carrier forums in Poland

What makes a great candidate

8–12+ years in international freight forwarding, with deep hands-on experience in ocean freight (FCL/LCL, key trade lanes).

Proven branch or business unit leadership experience with a demonstrable track record of growing revenue and ocean freight volumes in a competitive market.

Strong knowledge of the Polish logistics landscape, including carrier relationships and customs environment.

Experience managing and developing cross-functional teams of 10+ people.

Fluent in both Polish and English; German or additional CEE language is a plus.

You will stand out if you have

An existing carrier and client network in the Polish or CEE market that you can activate quickly.

Experience in a senior commercial role alongside operational leadership — not one or the other.

Familiarity with digital freight platforms, TMS systems, and data-driven operational tools.

Experience in air freight or customs brokerage as a complement to ocean freight expertise.

A track record of building and scaling teams in a fast-moving, growth-oriented environment.