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 Yorkshire and the Humber
A part of the country known for the natural beauty of the Yorkshire Dales and the Lincolnshire Woods, Yorkshire and the Humber comprises a number of cities and large towns - like Bradford, Kingston upon Hull, Sheffield, Leeds, Doncaster and Halifax - that offer many opportunities for those seeking Head of Freight positions.
The region has long been an important part of the British economy, particularly in terms of industrial capability and scientific innovation.
During the 18th century, Benjamin Huntsman pioneered a new technique for crucible steel. This paved the way for Sheffield to become a major player in the steelworks industry for the next 200 years. Stainless steel was also invented in the region in 1913.
These days, Yorkshire and the Humber is home to a number of large companies, such as Tata Steel Europe, Reckitt Benckiser, Ideal Standard and BAE Systems.
Yorkshire has a rich brewing heritage and is home to some big names such as Thwaites, John Smith’s, and Timothy Taylor, as well as being the home of two market leading tea brands, Tetley and Yorkshire. Yorkshire is also the home of Haribo, and the well-known Roundtree Factory. .
A number of financial services companies also have offices here, particularly in Leeds. These include Direct Line, First Direct and an HSBC call centre, as well as Yorkshire Building Society, Leeds Building Society and Bradford & Bingley.
The head offices for ASDA, Morrisons, Arla Foods UK and Clipper Logistics are also in the area.
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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