Head of Freight
As logistics and supply operations grow bigger and travel further, it’s inevitable that they will also get more complex. And that’s when inefficiencies can start to creep in and the task can become overwhelmed with firefighting. That is, of course, unless there’s a good head of freight at the helm. Their job is to oversee the whole transport and logistics operation of a company, a region, a depot or a sector for a freight business.
Head of freight jobs come up regularly all over the world, and it’s no wonder why – a methodical, active philosophy to organising logistics, from the individual vehicle to the big strategic picture, keeps a logistics operation efficient and profitable. Look out for jobs called “Freight Forwarding Manager” or just “Freight Manager”, too, as they are usually similar roles, some of which are executive. In complex organisations the head of freight might well be overseeing a specific region, which can mean a county, a city, a country or a continent, depending on the nature of the business.
The skills required
The head of freight will have an excellent understanding of how supply chain interoperates, over sea, air, rail and road, and will understand how warehousing and fulfillment interact with last mile delivery and bulk logistics. Experience is key to filling this role at managerial level, so a proven track record in freight logistics is essential.
As head of freight, you’ll be occupying a position above the depot, driver and maintenance level, and possibly (but not necessarily) below board level, so you’ll need to be adept at communicating and understanding strategic instructions in both directions. You might be overseeing a small team of sub-managers, too, so high level managerial skills will come in handy.
Head of Freight Jobs in Farnborough
Aviation enthusiasts will know straight away where Farnborough is, as it is the site of a world-famous air show. Every two years aviation companies from the defence and civil sectors descend on the town’s airport to demonstrate their wares and sign billion-dollar deals, and the general public are treated to aerobatics displays and low flypasts by the fastest and largest flying machines in the sky.
The town of Farnborough wraps around the north and east of the airport complex, located at the north-eastern tip of Hampshire. To its south is Aldershot, home to the famous barracks, and 14 miles (23 km) to the north west is Reading. The centre of London is 32 miles (50 km) north east. The M3 passes to Farnborough’s north as it connects Southampton with the M25. The town also has several railway stations connecting the aforementioned towns and cities.
Farnborough has a busy retail sector and some notable business parks, such as Farnborough Aerospace Centre and IQ Farnborough. The latter is a work in progress, but already hosts a BMW dealership, AgustaWestland, Autodesk, Bluhalo, Blue Coat Systems and Defence Strategy & Solutions among others. It’s a businesslike town that is well connected and affluent, so could well harbour Head of Freight jobs as it goes about its work.
Popular locations
Head of freight jobs at Cast UK
Head of freight is one of the commonest positions we fill at Cast UK, mainly because of our supply chain background and the relationships we have built up over the years in the industry.
If you’re at a business that’s looking for a head of freight right now, or you regularly need regional or sectoral heads of freight to oversee your supply chain operations, call 0333 121 3345 today so we can start filling your vacancies.
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