Full job description*Multi-Modal Export & Cross Trade OperatorLocation: Laindon
Job Type:Full-time / Permanent
One of our clients is looking for a proactive, organised and customer-focused Multi-Modal Export & Cross Trade Operator This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced freight forwarding professional who thrives in a fast-paced logistics environment, enjoys building strong customer relationships and understands the importance of delivering efficient, cost-effective and reliable export solutions.
The successful candidate will be responsible for managing day-to-day export and cross-trade operations across sea, air and road freight, ensuring shipments are handled efficiently, compliantly and to the highest standards of customer service.
Key ResponsibilitiesExport & Cross-Trade Operations
**Manage the full lifecycle of export bookings, including general export enquiries, shipment coordination and cross-trade movements.
*Coordinate multimodal shipments across sea, air and road freight, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery.
*Arrange collections, overseas deliveries and the preparation and management of customs documentation.
*Create and maintain accurate shipment records within LBase, ensuring all job details and operational information are up to date.
*Liaise with overseas agents, carriers, third-party logistics providers, customs authorities and internal departments to ensure smooth operations.
*Monitor shipment progress and proactively resolve any operational issues or delays.

*Customer Service & Business Development
*Deliver excellent customer service by understanding client requirements and meeting, or exceeding, expectations.
*Support sales leads and contribute to developing new business opportunities with existing and prospective customers.
*Assist the sales team with B2B initiatives, accurate data entry, shipment updates and logistical support.
*Build and maintain strong working relationships with customers, suppliers and overseas partners.
Commercial & Financial Management
*Negotiate competitive rates and terms with carriers, suppliers and logistics partners while maintaining high service standards.
*Ensure all job costs are accurately recorded in LBase.
*Prepare and issue export and cross-trade invoices promptly and accurately.
*Liaise with the accounts department to resolve sales and cost queries.
*Work closely with the Branch Manager and colleagues to improve profitability and operational efficiency.
Compliance & Administration
*Ensure all shipments comply with relevant export regulations, customs requirements and industry standards.
*Maintain accurate records of export transactions, shipment statuses and compliance documentation for audit purposes.
*Support the development of supply chain processes to improve efficiency and reduce lead times.Teamwork & Support
*Work collaboratively with colleagues to ensure the smooth running of the department, particularly during peak periods and holiday cover.
*Provide operational support across other areas of the business when required.
*Assist with the training and development of new team members.
*The Ideal CandidateWe are looking for someone who has:

*Previous experience in freight forwarding, ideally within export operations and cross trade.
*A good understanding of multimodal freight, including sea, air and road exports.
*Knowledge of export documentation, customs procedures and international shipping requirements.
*Experience liaising with overseas agents, carriers, suppliers and customers.
*Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple shipments and competing priorities.
*Excellent communication, customer service and problem-solving skills.
*Commercial awareness and the confidence to negotiate competitive supplier rates.
*Good numerical and administrative skills, with experience in job costing and invoicing.
*Strong IT skills and the ability to maintain accurate records across operational systems. Experience using LBase would be an advantage.
*A proactive, flexible and team-oriented approach, with a commitment to delivering high standards of service.