Commercial Operations Specialist

About the role

We are seeking a Commercial Operations Specialist to drive commercial growth while overseeing clearing, freight forwarding and transportation activities across Rwanda and Zambia. The role blends business development with operational leadership to expand the customer base and ensure efficient service delivery.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute commercial strategies to increase revenue and market presence.
• Identify new business opportunities and build relationships with potential customers and key accounts.
• Manage end‑to‑end clearing, freight forwarding and transportation operations to meet service timelines.
• Coordinate with customs authorities, transporters, clearing agents, shipping lines and other stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations, statutory requirements and company policies.
• Negotiate freight rates, transportation costs, service agreements and commercial terms.
• Monitor operational performance, service quality, turnaround times and cost efficiency.
• Resolve operational and customer issues promptly and maintain long‑term stakeholder relationships.
• Prepare commercial and operational reports, performance updates and market insights for management.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and provide market intelligence on logistics trends.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree or diploma in Logistics, Shipping, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration or a related field.
• Minimum 3 years of progressive experience in freight forwarding, clearing, logistics or transportation operations.
• Experience handling both commercial development and operational responsibilities.
• Strong knowledge of Rwanda and/or Zambia logistics markets and customs procedures.
• Proven track record in customer acquisition, relationship management, rate negotiation and commercial coordination.
• Good understanding of clearing, forwarding, transportation, customs documentation and logistics processes.
• Leadership, negotiation, communication, problem‑solving and stakeholder‑management abilities.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities and thrive in a fast‑paced environment.

Required skills