Sea Freight Operations & Customer Manager

Location: Christchurch
Job Type: Permanent
Industry: Manufacturing, Transport & Logistics | Freight/Cargo Forwarding | Rail & Maritime Transport
Reference: BH-3161
Job Published: March 06, 2026
This is a great opportunity for an experienced sea freight professional to step into a broader role combining operations, customer engagement, and team leadership within the reefer logistics space.
Based in Christchurch, this role sits within a well-established international logistics environment and involves overseeing reefer sea freight operations across Australia and New Zealand.
You will work closely with customers, internal teams, and offshore colleagues to ensure temperature-controlled shipments move smoothly and service standards remain high.
This role would suit someone who enjoys being close to the operational detail while also building strong customer relationships and supporting a small team.

What’s involved
Overseeing reefer sea freight export and import operations across ANZ
Working closely with customers to ensure smooth delivery of temperature-controlled shipments
Supporting and coordinating a small team across New Zealand and Australia
Managing LCL and FCL shipments and related documentation
Working collaboratively with internal teams including operations, customer service, and compliance
Ensuring regulatory and documentation requirements are met for export markets
Identifying opportunities to improve processes and service delivery
Occasional travel to Australia

What we’re looking for
Solid experience in sea freight forwarding operations
Strong understanding of LCL and FCL export and import processes
Confidence working directly with customers and stakeholders
Highly organised with strong attention to detail
A collaborative team player who enjoys supporting colleagues
Experience working with refrigerated or temperature-controlled cargo 

Why consider this role
Opportunity to step into a broader leadership role
Exposure to ANZ operations and customers
Collaborative team environment
Christchurch-based role within a well-established logistics network
Competitive salary package including performance bonus

This role will suit someone looking to move beyond purely operational freight work and take on greater responsibility in a customer-focused logistics leadership position.

Apply now! Contact Amanda on 021520643 if you have any questions

About Us Team Recruitment has specialised in freight forwarding and logistics for over 30 years.
We partner with leading freight forwarding and logistics businesses across New Zealand to connect skilled people with opportunities that fit their goals and values.
Visit us at www.teamrecruitment.co.nz to learn more.