Export Operations Manager

A well-established international freight forwarder is seeking an experienced Ocean Export Manager to lead export operations at its Los Angeles-area branch. This role is heavily focused on ocean freight, requiring a hands-on leader who can own the full export process, manage shipment volume, and ensure operational excellence. This is not a coordination-only role — the ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing ocean export shipments end-to-end and operating within a fast-paced freight forwarding environment. Key Responsibilities Ocean Export Operations (Primary Focus) Own and manage full-cycle ocean export shipments from booking through departure and post-shipment follow-up Coordinate container bookings, vessel schedules, and space allocations with steamship lines Oversee routing, carrier selection, and shipment planning Review and approve export documentation including: Bills of Lading (B/L) Shipper's Letters of Instruction (SLI) Commercial invoices and packing lists Ensure accurate and timely AES filings Coordinate with ports, terminals, trucking providers, and warehouses to ensure smooth cargo movement Proactively resolve issues such as rollovers, delays, and documentation discrepancies CargoWise & Systems Management Utilize CargoWise for shipment processing, documentation, tracking, and recordkeeping Ensure data accuracy and proper system usage across export operations Support process improvements and workflow efficiency within the system Compliance & Documentation Ensure compliance with U.S. export regulations, including EAR, ITAR, and OFAC Maintain proper export documentation and recordkeeping standards Act as escalation point for complex compliance or documentation issues Leadership & Team Oversight Supervise and mentor export staff, providing guidance and performance oversight Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) Partner with sales, customer service, and overseas agents to support client needs Handle escalations and maintain strong client relationships Air Export (Secondary Support) Provide oversight and support for air export shipments as needed Ensure consistency in processes across both ocean and air operations Qualifications Required 5-10+ years of experience in export operations within a freight forwarding environment Strong, hands-on experience with ocean export shipments (primary focus) Proven ability to manage high-volume ocean freight operations Hands-on experience using CargoWise for export processing and documentation Deep understanding of: Ocean export documentation (B/L, SLI, commercial invoice, packing list) AES filings and export compliance Incoterms and international shipping regulations Experience coordinating with: Steamship lines Preferred Prior leadership or supervisory experience Experience in a freight forwarder or NVOCC environment Exposure to both ocean and air export operations Strong problem-solving skills in time-sensitive environments Why This Role High-impact position with ownership of ocean export operations Opportunity to lead and improve processes within a growing team Exposure to diverse international shipments and commodities Apply If you have strong ocean export expertise, hands-on CargoWise experience, and are ready to step into a leadership role, we encourage you to apply.

Pay:

$90,000.00 - $125,000.00 per year

Experience:

Ocean Export Operations:

4 years (Preferred)

Air Export Operations:

1 year (Required)

Cargowise:

1 year (Required)

Work Location:

In person