Freight Team Leader

Job description

Purpose of the Job

To lead and coordinate the day-to-day freight warehouse operation, ensuring all inbound and outbound cargo is handled safely, securely, efficiently, and in full compliance with company procedures and applicable aviation security regulations. The role is responsible for maintaining operational performance, cargo security standards, team supervision, and ensuring time-critical freight is processed in accordance with customer, airline, and regulatory requirements.

Job Description

Key Accountabilities

Operational Management

• Lead and coordinate daily warehouse activities to ensure the efficient movement of air and sea freight shipments
• Supervise the receipt, checking, handling, storage, and dispatch of freight
• Ensure cargo is correctly identified, labelled, documented, and prepared for collection or airline uplift
• Manage warehouse priorities in line with airline cut-off times, customer requirements, and operational deadlines
• Support loading and unloading activities while ensuring safe handling practices are maintained

Security & Compliance

• Oversee cargo security screening activities, including X-Ray and ETD screening processes
• Ensure compliance with CAA aviation security regulations and company security procedures
• Maintain cargo integrity and security controls throughout the warehouse handling process
• Escalate security concerns, damaged cargo, discrepancies, and operational irregularities promptly
• Ensure secure segregation and handling of different cargo types as required

Team Leadership

• Lead, motivate, and supervise warehouse personnel
• Allocate workload and provide clear operational direction to team members
• Support training and development initiatives
• Ensure employees follow approved operational, security, safety, and compliance procedures
• Drive continuous improvement and operational best practices

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with Freight Operations, Transport, Customer Service, and other internal stakeholders
• Ensure shipments progress through the warehouse efficiently and without unnecessary delay
• Support management in resolving service issues and operational challenges
• Contribute to achieving operational and commercial KPIs

Health, Safety & Housekeeping

• Maintain a safe, secure, and compliant warehouse environment
• Conduct routine warehouse inspections and checks
• Monitor warehouse equipment and escalate maintenance or safety concerns
• Promote a positive safety culture and adherence to all Health & Safety requirements
• Job Requirements - Experience and Education
• Knowledge, Skills & Experience
• Essential
• Minimum 5 years' experience in air freight, logistics, cargo handling, or warehouse operations
• Previous Team Leader, Supervisor, or similar leadership experience
• Strong understanding of warehouse operations, cargo security, and Health & Safety requirements
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to prioritise workload and manage time-critical freight movements
• Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities
• Experience using warehouse or freight operational systems

Desirable

• Experience within a CAA-regulated air cargo environment
• Experience with X-Ray screening and aviation cargo security processes
• Forklift licence and material handling equipment experience
• Knowledge of air freight export/import processes

Core Competencies

• Leadership & People Management
• Operational Excellence
• Planning & Organisation
• Attention to Detail
• Customer Focus
• Communication & Collaboration
• Security Awareness
• Problem Solving & Decision Making
• Continuous Improvement

Working Conditions

• Warehouse-based operational role
• Requirement to work flexibly to support business and operational demands
• Exposure to freight warehouse, cargo handling, and screening environments
• Regular interaction with operational teams, carriers, customers, and regulatory stakeholders

Leadership Behaviors Building Outstanding Teams Setting a clear direction Simplification Collaborate & break silos Execution & Accountability Growth mindset Innovation Inclusion External focus Skills

We offer:

Aramex UK Benefits Package

• Life Assurance (available after 6 months of service) – 4x salary (Met Life)
• Pension (Standard Life - 3% employer, 5% employee)
• Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) (Telus Health)
• Free Flu Jab and Eye Care Voucher
• Occupational Health Services
• 25 days annual leave, plus 8 bank holidays
• Special Shipping Rates for Aramex Employees