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 Merseyside
Situated in the North West of England, Merseyside is a metropolitan county that includes Liverpool as well as St Helens, Sefton, Wirral and Knowsley.
The region is best known for its prominence in the shipping and shipbuilding industry during the 18th and 19th centuries. Indeed, Liverpool was one of the most important ports in the country - and the world - and a huge range of products were imported and exported from the city.
Merseyside played a pivotal role during the Industrial Revolution, as the area was known for its textiles, metalwork and glass and it was also an important part of the UK's coal mining industry. In addition, a network of canals and railways expanded across the region in order to simplify transport.
Today, Merseyside is a thriving area, known not only for its manufacturing and industrial trade, but also its importance in finance, retail, energy, technology and the service sector - and there are many opportunities available for those seeking Head of Freight vacancies in the region.
A number of well-known companies call the area home, including Littlewoods, Lambrini, Sayers and Pilkington, while local car manufacturing facilities assemble Jaguar X-Type and Land Rover Freelander vehicles.
In addition, Merseyside is an important transport hub, with various airports, shipping ports, ferry terminals train lines covering the vicinity.
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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