CARGO OPERATIONS SUPERVISOR

ABOUT THE JOB

Cargo is the heartbeat of this role, and everything else flows from it. As Cargo Operations Supervisor, you will lead cargo and freight operations and customs clearance for our Barbados operation, directing the cargo team and taking ownership of the safe, timely, and cost-effective movement of all cargo. We are in the process of establishing a bonded warehouse in Barbados, and until it is approved and live, you will be based at one of our store locations, coordinating all cargo activity from there.

You will build and lead a high-performing cargo team, maintain strong relationships with customs authorities and carriers, and keep tight control over the operating costs of the cargo operation. You will also bring a genuine interest in automation and technology, identifying opportunities to improve cargo efficiency and reduce manual work.

If you are someone who thrives under ownership, leads with integrity, and takes pride in operational excellence, this is the opportunity for you

Key Responsibilities

Cargo and Freight Operations

• Oversee all incoming and outgoing cargo, directing the team in advance planning to ensure accuracy, efficiency, and safety at every stage

• Monitor incoming shipments daily and direct the team in advance planning for their handling

• Work closely with the US warehouse to ensure smooth cargo operations and timely customer deliveries

• Ensure all cargo is handled safely and professionally so that goods are never damaged

• Ensure the package room and sea freight areas are properly maintained for fast and accurate package retrieval

• Ensure cargo is cleared, released, and dispatched in a timely fashion

Customs and Regulatory Compliance

• Work closely with the Customs and Excise Department to secure approval of the bonded warehouse and bring it into operation as a priority

• Prepare and process import and export documentation in accordance with customs regulations and procedures

• Maintain a strong working relationship with the Customs and Excise Department and stay current on changes in import and export laws

• Ensure full compliance with dangerous goods handling and IATA requirements

Carrier & Vendor Relations

• Work closely with all air and ocean carrier partners to ensure the smooth and efficient movement of cargo

• Maintain professional working relationships with vendors and service providers, escalating service failures promptly

Technology & Automation

• Identify and implement automation tools to improve cargo processing efficiency and reduce manual work

• Leverage technology, including scanning and screening tools, to streamline cargo handling and clearance workflows

• Work with management and the technology team to roll out digital tools and system improvements, and continuously seek innovative solutions

Team Leadership & People Management

• Supervise the cargo operations staff, schedule shifts, and ensure morale is high and performance meets a high standard

• Lead, schedule, and develop a high-performing team across operations, customer service, and warehouse functions

• Set daily goals, monitor performance, and provide frequent updates to management

• Lead with assertiveness, balancing team morale with firm accountability for results

TEAM PERKS

What We're Looking For

•    A minimum of five years of experience in an operational management role. Cargo, freight forwarding, or customs brokerage experience is an advantage but is not a requirement.

•   Demonstrated experience leading and developing an operational team.

•  Working knowledge of import and export documentation and customs procedures, including ASYCUDA based systems, is an advantage.

•  Familiarity with dangerous goods and IATA handling requirements is an asset.

•   Sound commercial judgement, with the ability to manage costs and basic financial controls.

•   Proficiency with digital task and workflow tools, and general office software.

You'll Thrive Here If You Are:

• A natural leader who is assertive but fair

• Someone who is energised by solving problems and improving processes

• Comfortable working in a dynamic environment that combines office and warehouse settings, with hours that can include nights, evenings, weekends, and holidays as cargo needs require

• Genuinely interested in technology, AI, and automation as tools for operational improvement