Business Development Manager – Freight Forwarding
Ipswich
Full-time | Permanent
Salary DOE + Excellent Annual Bonus Structure
Are you a driven Business Development Manager with deep Freight Forwarding expertise?

Do you want to join a large, well-established yet proudly independent logistics organisation with an exceptional industry reputation and one of the most impressive working environments in the sector?
We’re recruiting on behalf of a leading independent Freight Forwarder with offices and warehousing across the UK. With continued growth across their Commercial team, they are looking to bring in an experienced, commercially minded Freight Forwarding BDM—ideally someone who also understands the operational side of the industry and can consult confidently with customers.
This is a fantastic opportunity to join a company known for its modern approach, high staff retention, collaborative culture and strong bonus structure that genuinely rewards performance.
The Role
As a Business Development Manager, you will play a key role in expanding the company’s UK presence and introducing new customers to their full suite of logistics services—including air, sea, road, warehousing and supply chain solutions.
You will act as a true logistics consultant, identifying opportunities, building long-term partnerships, and ensuring a seamless handover of new business into operations.
Key responsibilities include:
*Identifying, qualifying and winning new business opportunities
*Introducing and integrating new clients across all service lines
*Acting as a trusted logistics consultant, providing solutions and identifying supply chain efficiencies
*Working closely with Commercial and Operations teams to develop SOPs and ensure smooth onboarding
*Collaborating with Inside Sales to maximise lead conversion
*Mentoring and guiding the Inside Sales team to develop the next generation of BDMs
*Re-engaging dormant accounts and expanding existing client relationships
*Attending industry events, conferences and networking opportunities
*Maintaining consistent branding and professional representation in all communications
*Bringing fresh ideas to improve processes, sales strategy and customer experience


To succeed in this role, you’ll ideally bring:
*Experience in a BDM, Senior BDM, or similar external sales role within Freight Forwarding
*Strong background in Import/Export operations (ideal but not essential)
*Confident understanding of customs procedures, documentation, bonded customs and Incoterms
*Experience managing a CRM/pipeline effectively
*Creative and adaptable approach to business development in a post-Covid hybrid working environment
*Excellent communication skills with both internal teams and external clients
*Strong organisational skills and the ability to plan your week independently
*A proactive, solutions-focused mindset with genuine customer care
Why Join This Company?
*A large, established but truly independent business—no corporate red tape
*Outstanding reputation across the logistics industry
*A modern, beautiful workspace that staff genuinely enjoy working in
*Strong leadership team and a supportive culture built on company values
*Clear progression pathways and genuine investment in people
*Highly competitive salary and a strong, achievable annual bonus scheme
*Opportunity to influence strategy and make a real impact in a growing Commercial team
Working Hours
Monday–Friday, 9:00am–5:30pm (37.5 hours/week)