Full job descriptionAssistant Trade Development Manager – Import Far East
Full time, permanent
We are looking for a confident and motivated individual with strong commercial awareness, who can lead and develop a high-performing team while managing day-to-day operations. You will be an excellent communicator, able to build strong relationships across the UK, MSC Geneva and origin offices in Asia, and will thrive in a fast-paced environment, contributing to growth and strengthening MSC’s position in the UK import market.
How you will help us and what you can expect
*Support the Trade Development Manager in the day-to-day commercial management of the Import Far East trade, identifying and capitalising on growth opportunities
*Take ownership of customer engagement across BCO, NVO and freight forwarder segments, building strong commercial relationships that drive loyalty and volume
*Organise and lead one-to-one meetings, team meetings and performance reviews, fostering a high-performance culture within the department
*Define and review individual performance contracts in line with MSC standards, ensuring team members are developed, motivated and engaged
*Build and maintain close working relationships with Far East origin agents, MSC Geneva Liner teams and key internal stakeholders across the UK business
*Monitor market conditions, competitor activity and rate trends across the Far East to UK corridor, providing insight and recommendations to support commercial strategy
*Assist with the preparation of reports, statistics, landed cost analysis and market research to support tender responses and business reviews
*Support the coordination of rate strategy across to optimise revenue and utilisation
*Attend internal and external meetings, customer visits and trade events, representing the department alongside or in the absence of the Trade Development Manager
*Work closely with the Trade Development Manager to ensure agreed strategies are implemented effectively and commercial targets are achieved
Skills and experience you’ll bring to us
*Proven ability to lead, develop and maximise the performance of a team in a fast-paced commercial environment
*Experience within the container shipping, freight forwarding or wider logistics industry, import experience is highly desirable
*Strong commercial acumen with an understanding of ocean freight pricing, rate structures and market dynamics
*Confidence in engaging with customers, senior stakeholders and Director-level associates, including direct communication with Geneva principals
*Experience in reporting, data analysis and compiling commercial statistics
*Ability to influence, implement change and drive continuous improvement across the team
*Resilient under pressure with the ability to prioritise workloads and deliver to tight deadlines
*Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with a professional manner at all times
*Knowledge of import processes would be a distinct advantage
*Strong time management and organisational skills
What we offer
*Competitive salary
*Private Health Care for everyone from day 1 (non contractual)
*Generous pension scheme
*Life Assurance – 4x salary
*22 days + a day to take on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve
*Free parking
*On-site artisan restaurant
*Discounted gym membership
*Cycle to work scheme
*Flu vaccines and eye care vouchers
*Buy or sell holiday scheme
*Christmas club saving
*MSC Cruises friends and family discount
*Full induction day and training provided
*Learning and development opportunities
*Dress for the day policy/modern office environment