Ocean Freight Manager

Role summary

Written by MyIslandJob from the job title and employer. See the employer's page for the full description.

The Ocean Freight Manager is responsible for managing ocean-freight operations, customer solutions, carrier relationships, shipment performance, costs and service quality. Typical requirements include experience in international freight forwarding or shipping, knowledge of ocean-import and export processes, customs and documentation, and familiarity with transport-management systems. Strong commercial, negotiation, analytical and communication skills are expected, along with the ability to lead teams, resolve operational issues and meet service and profitability targets. Experience managing key customers, working with shipping lines and understanding Australian freight regulations would be advantageous. Candidates should be organised, customer-focused and comfortable working across multiple countries and time zones.

About the employer

DHL is a global logistics and supply-chain company operating across more than 220 countries and territories. Its businesses cover express delivery, freight forwarding, contract logistics, e-commerce logistics and supply-chain management. DHL Global Forwarding, the division most relevant to this role, arranges air, ocean and road freight for businesses ranging from small enterprises to multinational organisations. The company works with shipping lines, airlines, customs authorities, suppliers and customers to move goods efficiently across international markets. DHL is known for its international reach, technology-enabled logistics services and focus on reliability, sustainability and customer experience. In Australia, it supports importers, exporters and manufacturers across major cities, ports and industrial regions. Employment commonly offers exposure to global operations, structured processes, professional development and opportunities to progress within the wider DHL network.

Working in Australia

Australia offers strong opportunities in logistics, freight forwarding, supply-chain management, port operations, transport, mining, healthcare, technology and professional services. Major employment hubs include Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, with ocean-freight roles often concentrated near ports and distribution centres. The culture is generally informal, practical and multicultural, with emphasis on workplace safety, direct communication and work-life balance. Lifestyle varies from busy urban living to coastal, regional and outdoor-oriented communities; housing and transport costs can be high in major cities. Skilled overseas applicants may explore employer-sponsored visas, skilled migration pathways or regional programs, subject to occupation lists and eligibility rules. A valid work right is required before employment, and applicants should check Australian immigration requirements, qualification recognition, health checks and relocation costs before moving.