What are the responsibilities and job description for the Branch Manager, Global Freight Forwarding position at Milkyway Chemical Logistics?
About Milkyway Group
Founded in 1998 and publicly listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, Milkyway Supply Chain Group is a leading global provider in integrated chemical logistics and supply chain innovation. Headquartered in China with a strong presence across Asia Pacific, the United States and Europe, our team of more than 4000 professionals drives annual revenues of over CNY 13 billion by delivering end-to-end solutions in global forwarding, tank and tanker services, project and chartering, regional transportation, warehousing, chemical distribution, and environmental protection. Backed by cutting-edge technologies, patented platforms, and advanced safety management systems, we strive to expand our international footprint and set new benchmarks for the industry.
At Milkyway, our success is built on our people. While we are trusted partners to many Fortune Global 500 companies, what truly sets us apart is the talent, dedication and innovation of our team. We believe in empowering every individual to make an impact by fostering a culture where bold ideas are welcomed, collaboration thrives, and professional growth is part of every career journey.
Joining Milkyway means more than just a job --- it’s the opportunity to grow with a global industry leader, shape the future of chemical logistics, and build a career you can be proud of.
Learn more at https://www.mwclg.com/en
About the Role
We are seeking an accomplished and results-driven Branch Manager with strong commercial leadership and deep strategic market insight for global ocean and air freight business development. This role is responsible for shaping and executing the region’s commercial strategy, driving sustainable revenue growth, expanding key customer portfolios, and elevating our competitive market position. In addition, the Branch Manager will oversee regional service performance to ensure operational excellence across all freight forwarding activities, and lead team building, talent development, and structured sales training to cultivate a high-performing commercial organization. Experience in global ISO tank logistics or specialized chemical cargo is highly preferred.
Key Responsibilities
Sales & Revenue Leadership
• Bring a solid portfolio of clients across air, ocean, and ground freight services to generate immediate revenue.
• Take full responsibility for profitability by optimizing pricing, freight rates, carrier negotiations, and cost structures to ensure healthy margins on all shipments and contracts.
• Identify and secure key accounts (e.g., import/export, e-commerce, manufacturing clients) with strong volume potential and profitable lanes.
• Develop and manage robust sales pipelines, forecasting, and performance tracking frameworks.
Business Development & Market Expansion
• Proven capability to negotiate and execute commercial contracts with steamship lines and airlines, including securing competitive freight rates, space commitments, and favorable service terms to support regional growth and margin targets.
• Identify and capitalize on emerging market opportunities, competitive gaps, and value-added service growth areas.
• Expand customer portfolios and deepen relationships with strategic accounts and channel partners.
Operational & Performance Excellence
• Establish and monitor KPIs across branches and business units, analyze performance gaps, and enforce corrective actions to drive productivity, profitability, and overall service excellence.
• Oversee regional operational performance to ensure service reliability, on-time execution, cost efficiency, and adherence to company SOPs and global quality standards.
Team Leadership & Development
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing sales and import/export operations team within the region.
• Drive a culture of accountability, continuous learning, and performance excellence.
• Provide clear direction, structured coaching, and career development pathways.
Qualifications
• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, Marketing or related field.
• 10 years of proven leadership experience in global ocean and air freight forwarding industry is a must.
• Strong sales background with demonstrated success in business development is a must.
• Experience in ISO tank/chemical/DG logistics is preferred.
• Deep understanding of global transportation networks, carrier negotiations, and market dynamics.
• Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, capable of building lasting relationships with clients, partners, and internal stakeholders.
• Proficient in data analysis, reporting, and performance tracking to support decision-making and continuous improvement.
• Comprehensive knowledge of regulatory compliance, safety, and quality standards across all operations.
• Ability to lead multi-location teams and drive organizational growth.
• Experience in M&A in the logistics industry in North America is highly preferred.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Willingness to travel domestically and internationally (15%).
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Having legal working status in the U.S.
What We Offer
• Competitive base salary within the industry
• Individual sales incentives (up to 13% x GP)
• Medical, dental and vision insurance 100% sponsored by employer after probation period
• 15 paid vacation
• 11 paid holidays
• 5 paid sick leave
• 3 paid bereavement leave
• 401k with 3% match
Salary : $115,000 - $150,000