Manager-Logistics & Freight Forwarding- Defense and Aerospace Sector

Role

We are seeking a highly organized and experienced Logistics and Freight Forwarding Manager to lead and manage our logistics operations within the Aerospace and Defense sector.

The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing the transportation, freight forwarding, and distribution of sensitive and high-value components, ensuring compliance with international trade regulations, defense industry standards, and internal policies.

You will work closely with Armed forces officers, freight forwards, trucking suppliers and program management in India and abroad to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery of materials and finished goods, both domestically and internationally.

RESPONSIBILITIES :

Logistics Operations:

• Oversee end-to-end logistics and freight forwarding operations for inbound and outbound shipments.
• Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to manage international and domestic shipments.
• Ensure on-time delivery of components and related materials while minimizing logistics costs.
• Develop and implement logistics strategies aligned with project timelines and customer requirements.

Compliance & Documentation:

• Ensure all logistics activities comply with international trade laws and other relevant export control regulations.
• Manage import/export documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and licenses.
• Maintain strict adherence to company, government, and client-specific compliance requirements, particularly within the defense industry.

Freight Forwarding:

• Select and manage relationships with freight forwarding
• Negotiate contracts, rates, and service agreements with transportation providers (air, ocean, ground).
• Track and manage shipments using ERP and tracking systems to ensure full visibility and traceability.

Risk Management & Security:

• Assess and mitigate risks related to transportation of high-value, classified, or hazardous materials.
• Implement and monitor security protocols for handling and shipping sensitive defense-related goods.

Team Leadership:

• Lead, train, and mentor logistics staff to ensure operational efficiency and regulatory compliance.
• Drive performance metrics, KPIs, and continuous improvement initiatives in logistics processes.

Collaboration:

• Partner with various teams to align logistics activities with business objectives.

Preferred candidate profile

• Bachelors degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field (Masters degree preferred).
• 7+ years of logistics/freight forwarding experience, with at least 3 years in aerospace, defense, or a similarly regulated industry.
• Strong knowledge of international shipping, customs regulations, INCO Terms, export control laws (ITAR, EAR), and defense logistics protocols.
• Experience working with freight tracking tools.
• Proven ability to manage logistics service providers and negotiate complex contracts.
• Strong leadership, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.

Preferred Certifications:

• Dangerous Goods Transportation Certification (IATA/IMDG/ADR)