Procurement Manager - LCL(China)

Working location: Ideally based Shanghai, can workable if other branch office like Shenzhen/Guangzhou/Ningbo/Qingdao/Xiamen
Reports To: Procurement Head- APAC                                                                                                                                        Job Summary: We are seeking a Strategic Procurement Manager specializing in LCL to lead our carrier engagement, rate negotiations, and trade lane strategy in China. This role requires a deep understanding of the international freight market, strong relationships with major carriers and liners, and the ability to secure competitive rates through both spot and long-term contracts. The ideal candidate will also drive the implementation of digital logistics platforms, enabling better visibility, efficiency, and collaboration across teams. Key Responsibilities:
Carrier/Liner Relationship Management

• Build, develop, and maintain strong working relationships with ocean carriers, liners, and freight forwarders across China.
• Act as the primary liaison with carriers for LCL services.
• Conduct regular performance reviews, contract negotiations, and strategic alignment sessions.

 
Freight Strategy & Rate Optimization

• Negotiate competitive short- and long-term contracts with carriers/liners for key trade lanes.
• Monitor and analyse global and regional freight market trends, including capacity, rates, fuel surcharges, and port congestion.
• Ensure the organization is protected against rate volatility while capitalizing on cost-saving opportunities.

 
Trade Lane Management

• Act as a subject matter expert on specific trade lanes (e.g. China– United States (US)/Latin America (Latam), leveraging market insights to support strategic decisions.
• Recommend optimal routing, carriers, and service levels based on customer demand, market conditions, and cost-efficiency.
• Collaborate with regional teams to align lane strategies with business needs and volume forecasts.

 
Digital Logistics Implementation

• Drive the adoption and execution of digital platforms (e.g., freight rate management systems, carrier portals, visibility tools).
• Train and support internal teams to utilize digital platforms for shipment planning, booking, tracking, and data analytics.
• Ensure accurate data integration and reporting to improve decision-making and process transparency.

 
Cross-functional Collaboration

• Partner with all Branch managers, supply chain, planning, finance, and commercial teams to align freight procurement with inventory and order fulfillment strategies.
• Support sales and product teams by providing freight forecasts, rate cards, and shipping solutions.

 
Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure compliance with all international trade regulations, customs requirements, and internal procurement policies.
• Develop contingency plans for freight disruptions, including alternate carriers, routes, or transport modes.

 
Key Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, International Business, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• 8 to 10 years of experience in ocean freight procurement or carrier management in China.
• Proven track record in negotiating freight contracts and managing carrier relationships.
• Prior experience working with large global shippers, 3PLs, or NVOCCs
• Familiarity with freight procurement tenders and RFQs
• Deep knowledge of global and regional trade lanes, shipping terms (Incoterms), and freight market dynamics.
• Previous experience with digital freight platforms, Strong communication skills in Mandarin and English (both spoken and written).
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in Excel, Power BI, or other reporting tools.

 
Key Competencies:

• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills
• Expertise in freight rate analysis and market benchmarking
• Proactive, data-driven decision-making
• Digital mindset with tech implementation experience
• Strategic thinking with operational execution capability
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders and high-pressure situations