Demo

International Business Development Manager – Freight Forwarding

Altius Talent | Freight Forwarding Recruitment
Chicago, IL Full Time
POSTED ON 1/6/2026
AVAILABLE BEFORE 2/4/2026

International Business Development Manager – Freight Forwarding – California & Illinois

Salary: $60,000 – $90,000 base Uncapped Commission Benefits

Keywords: Freight forwarding, air freight, ocean freight, NVOCC, logistics sales, business development, California, Illinois


About the Organization


We’re exclusively partnered with an established international freight forwarding provider delivering end-to-end air, ocean, and multimodal logistics solutions. The business operates through a strong global agency network and long-standing carrier relationships, while maintaining a hands-on, entrepreneurial sales culture across its U.S. operations.


Despite its global reach, the organization empowers its commercial teams with flexibility, speed, and direct access to internal decision-makers—creating an environment where motivated sales professionals can win and grow accounts efficiently.


About the Position


This International Business Development Manager role is focused on generating new international freight business across California and Illinois. The position is responsible for developing new customer relationships while working closely with internal pricing and operations teams to deliver competitive, solution-led logistics offerings.


The role is ideal for an experienced freight forwarding salesperson or a strong inside sales professional ready to step into a more outward-facing, revenue-generating role with defined territory ownership.


Key Responsibilities


  • Identify, pursue, and close new air and ocean freight opportunities across California and Illinois
  • Conduct client meetings to understand logistics requirements and present tailored forwarding solutions
  • Partner with pricing, operations, and leadership teams to develop competitive bids and proposals
  • Build, manage, and progress a qualified sales pipeline using CRM tools
  • Maintain and expand client relationships to maximize long-term account value
  • Represent the business at customer meetings, industry events, and networking functions


Candidate Profile


  • 3–5 years of experience in freight forwarding sales or inside sales roles
  • Strong working knowledge of international air and ocean freight services
  • Proven ability to generate new business within logistics or supply chain environments
  • Confident communicator with strong negotiation and presentation skills
  • Self-motivated, organized, and comfortable managing a defined territory
  • Based in California or Illinois, with flexibility for regional travel


What You Can Expect


  • Base salary between $60K–$90K, depending on experience
  • Uncapped commission structure with clear earning potential
  • Collaborative, growth-oriented environment with strong operational support
  • Access to a global forwarding network and established carrier relationships
  • Clear progression opportunities as the U.S. business continues to expand

Salary : $60,000 - $90,000

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