Sales Manager - Freight Forwarding (India Trade Lane & Global Markets)
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Job Description
Sales Manager – Freight Forwarding (India Trade Lane & Global Markets)
Location: Chicago - NJ / Hybrid
Salary Range: $80,000 – $120,000 + Excellent Benefits
We are hiring a Sales Manager with deep experience in freight forwarding sales, a strong background in India trade lane development, and a broad understanding of global freight markets.
This opportunity is with a leading shipping and logistics company founded in India in 1994 and acquired in 2018. The organization has since expanded rapidly and now operates globally across 7 countries.
Company Overview:
- Headquartered in India
- Global presence: USA (Chicago), UK, Germany, Turkey, Singapore, Thailand, Japan
- 1,000+ employees worldwide
- Approx. $100 million in annual U.S. revenue
- 30+ years in freight forwarding, logistics, and supply chain services
Role Overview:
As the General Manager – Sales, you will lead U.S. sales and business development initiatives, with a focus on expanding the India-U.S. trade lane. You will also manage a small team in Chicago and contribute to broader trade lane development and client engagement efforts nationwide.
Key Responsibilities:
Business Development & Sales Growth
- Develop and implement sales strategies to expand revenue and market share in the U.S.
- Identify and acquire new direct customers
- Drive individual sales efforts to meet/exceed targets
- Develop and manage relationships with small/mid-sized U.S. agents to support India lane
Client & Partner Relationship Management
- Strengthen relationships with current U.S. customers
- Maintain and grow agent network partnerships
- Act as the key point of contact for high-value clients
Market & Trade Lane Development
- Lead initiatives to grow all trade lanes with strong emphasis on India-U.S.
- Analyze market trends, client needs, and competitive insights
- Develop tailored logistics and supply chain solutions
Sales Team Leadership
- Build, train, and lead a high-performing sales team across key U.S. locations
- Provide mentorship, coaching, and accountability
- Establish sales incentives and performance metrics
Strategic Planning & Execution
- Collaborate with executive leadership on national sales strategy
- Partner with operations to ensure service excellence
- Report on sales performance and market development
Qualifications:
- 5+ years in sales or business development within freight forwarding
- Demonstrated experience developing the India trade lane
- Strong understanding of global freight markets and trade regulations
- Proven ability to meet/exceed sales goals
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
- Experience working with both direct customers and agent partners
- Self-starter with long-term vision and strategic execution abilities