Manager, Ocean Freight

Company Description
**Are you a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a genuine passion for ocean freight?**

**Are you adept at skillfully managing stakeholder relationships and possessing the finesse of a seasoned negotiator? Join our team and unleash your full potential in the world of ocean freight**

It's more than just water. FIJI Water is known for its iconic square bottle and unique mineral profile. Since 1996, FIJI Water has embodied what it means to be Earth's Finest Water® and is sold in more than 90 countries. FIJI Water is committed to doing business responsibly and seeking opportunities to make a difference. This means investing in sustainability, the environment, and local communities to enable positive change.

**Job Description**:
As the Manager of Ocean Freight, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of FIJI Water's global operations. Your primary responsibility will be to craft and execute a comprehensive ocean freight strategy aligned with FIJI Water's 5-year plan, ensuring seamless worldwide delivery. Emphasizing collaboration, you will work closely with FIJI Water's sister company, NPDL, to negotiate with Ocean Carriers and secure optimal cargo allotments at fair and competitive rates, maximizing our long-term business goals.

By forging strong partnerships with other supply chain leaders in Planning, Plant Operations, Customs Clearance & Drayage, you will drive the execution of FIJI Water's operational strategies and logistics solutions. Your expertise in ocean freight, combined with your excellent rapport with NPDL and other deep-sea carriers, will allow you to develop long-term synergies and strategies to deliver unparalleled customer service across all regions, without compromising on cost-effectiveness.

As a key decision-maker, you will manage the ocean freight P&L, skillfully handling budgeting, financial data analysis, and reporting. Your proactive approach will enable you to identify opportunities for improvement, leading to continuous enhancement of ocean freight key performance indicators. Your leadership will also extend to the day-to-day management a talented ocean freight financial analyst, based in Fiji, nurturing a high-performing team dedicated to excellence. This role will preferably be based in Sydney, Australia (but we can consider other options like Auckland, New Zealand or Fiji).

**_ Here's what you will be doing:_**
- Exceed customer expectations by consistently delivering high-quality products and exceptional service, while effectively managing the Cost of Goods Sold, particularly in ocean freight, to align with our planned targets.
- Craft global Ocean freight agreements that foster seamless collaboration with NPDL, ensuring reliable and timely container availability for the Yaqara manufacturing plant in Fiji, and maintaining consistent deliveries to ports worldwide.
- Lead and mentor an associate, providing them with the necessary technical support, guidance, and accountability in full compliance with company policies. Your management will drive excellence and foster a culture of success.

**Qualifications**:
**_
Here's what you'll bring to the table:_**
- A Bachelor's Degree is essential, preferably in Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field. Advanced Degree (Master's / MBA) helpful if it shows further development of the capabilities referred to above
- Minimum 10 years' experience in operational or commercial roles at a prominent Ocean Carrier.
- Essential Pricing and/or Trade Management experience.
- Proven track record in managing ocean freight relationships with deep sea carriers as a large shipper.
- Strong Financial Analytical skills and experience with P&Ls/budgets.

We are seeking a highly motivated and results-driven individual, equipped with exceptional analytical skills and a natural ability to connect with internal and external stakeholders across all levels. You will be an effective negotiator, fostering strong and lasting relationships with key partners. Your talent in prioritization, planning, and managing within a dynamic global business, organized under a matrix structure, will be crucial.

In this fast-paced environment, meeting deadlines will be second nature to you, demonstrating remarkable agility and flexibility. With a keen financial acumen, you will effortlessly grasp the business implications and strategic opportunities, enabling informed decision-making in data-driven conversations. Your presentations will be influential, showcasing a keen focus on processes and unwavering attention to detail.

Not only will you possess strong influencing skills, you will also be collaborative and innovative when working with the team to find creative solutions. Driven by a passion for success, you will continuously strive to elevate your domain, never content with the status quo. If you possess the desire to make a real impact and a commitment to constant improvement, this is the opportunity for you to thrive and make a dif