Manager (Global Freight Management Division) - #1162193

The Manager, Global Freight Management will lead the strategic planning, negotiation, and governance of global ocean and air freight contracts across key trade lanes. The role has 4 Direct Reports (Singapore) and regional functional leadership across Hong Kong and China freight management teams.

This role serves as the primary interface between global carriers, freight forwarders, and internal Panasonic group stakeholders. The incumbent will drive competitive procurement strategies, safeguard rate confidentiality, manage risk exposure in volatile shipping markets, and ensure operational excellence across regions.

The position requires strong industry presence, market intelligence capability, leadership maturity, and the ability to influence senior internal and external stakeholders.

Responsibilities:

• Lead annual and ad-hoc global freight negotiations with ocean carriers and forwarders.

• Develop and execute multi-trade lane procurement strategies aligned with cost and service targets.

• Own carrier portfolio management, allocation strategy, and contract governance.

• Drive market intelligence, rate forecasting, and disruption risk mitigation (BCP framework).

• Set and monitor KPIs (forecast vs. actual volume, cost performance, service compliance).

• Lead and develop team capability; ensure strong cross-functional alignment with Sales, Manufacturing, and Finance.

• Conduct strategic QBRs with key carriers and enforce performance accountability.

• Identify and execute cost optimization initiatives across regions

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Business, or related discipline.

• Minimum 8 years of relevant experience in ocean freight contracting, global logistics procurement, or MNC shipping management.

• Experience managing regional or global freight portfolios is strongly preferred.

• Experience and knowledge of shipping and logistics related activities are essential.

• Strong understanding of global container market dynamics and commercial rate structures

• Demonstrated leadership experience managing regional or global teams

• Proficiency in MS Excel, Power point and Word

• Good Communication and presentation skills

• Mature, honest, self-motivated with strong interpersonal skills

• High resilience and ability to operate under pressure in dynamic market environments

• Willingness to travel and work across time zones when required