Commercial Manager – Container Line

Commercial / Sales Manager – Shipping Agency (Container Line)

Location: Nairobi, Kenya

Role Overview

We are seeking an experienced Commercial / Sales Manager with a strong background in Container Line / Liner Shipping to drive commercial growth, strengthen customer relationships, and lead business development for our Shipping Agency operations in Nairobi.

The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in container shipping, liner services, and shipping agency operations, with a proven track record of achieving commercial targets, expanding market presence, and developing strategic customer relationships.

Key Responsibilities:

Commercial & Business Development
• Drive the commercial and sales performance of the Shipping Agency office independently.
• Develop and execute commercial strategies to achieve revenue, profitability, and market share objectives.
• Identify new business opportunities and expand the company's presence within the shipping and logistics market.
• Lead negotiations, prepare commercial proposals, and secure strategic business opportunities.
• Achieve sales targets while maximizing customer retention and profitability.

Customer & Stakeholder Management
• Build, manage, and strengthen relationships with key customers, shipping principals, freight forwarders, NVOCCs, logistics providers, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure high levels of customer satisfaction through proactive account management and superior service delivery.
• Manage customer escalations and maintain long-term business relationships.

Market Intelligence
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities, freight rates, and customer requirements to identify business opportunities.
• Provide market intelligence and commercial insights to support strategic decision-making.
• Recommend new trade opportunities and market expansion initiatives.

Leadership & Cross-Functional Collaboration
• Lead, mentor, and support the commercial team to achieve business objectives.
• Collaborate closely with Operations, Customer Service, Documentation, and Finance teams to ensure seamless service delivery.
• Drive a high-performance culture focused on customer satisfaction and operational excellence.

Required Experience & Qualifications:
• Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain, Maritime Studies, or a related discipline.
• 10–15 years of experience in Commercial, Sales, Shipping Agency, or Liner Shipping operations.
• Mandatory experience working with a Container Line (Liner Shipping Company).
• Experience across Asia, the Gulf, or Africa will be an advantage.
• Proven experience in commercial management, client acquisition, and business development.