Logistics Coordinator

Overview

Astro Offshore is seeking an experienced and highly organised Logistics Coordinator to manage and coordinate logistical activities related to our marine transportation and shipping operations.

The role will be responsible for the planning, execution, and monitoring of marine and air logistics to ensure the timely and efficient movement of goods. This includes managing shipping documentation, freight forwarders and 3PL providers, customs clearance, inventory movements, urgent shipments, and logistics costs.

The ideal candidate will have proven experience in marine logistics or shipping operations, strong knowledge of freight forwarding and maritime requirements, and previous experience within the GCC and West Africa region. The ability to manage multiple shipments, resolve logistical issues quickly, and work effectively under pressure is essential.

Responsibilities

• Plan and coordinate marine and air transportation schedules, ensuring optimal routing and compliance with regulations. Have a good understanding of IncoTerms and stages/sectors of shipments (both sea and air freight).
• Prepare and manage shipping documents, including bills of lading, customs paperwork, and invoices. Both import and export documentation will be required to be reviewed and prepared.
• Liaise with shipping companies, freight forwarders, and port authorities to negotiate contracts, obtain quotes, authorize transport requests and manage relationships. Manage clearing agents and warehouse/storage contractors in forward operating bases. Manage central logistics hub / freight forwarder (3PL) contractor for global logistics / freight forwarding and customs clearance.
• Monitor inventory levels and coordinate with warehouse teams to ensure timely loading and unloading of goods. Manage local transportation in liaison with warehouse team from warehouse to port/vessel and returns.
• Address and resolve logistical issues, including delays, discrepancies, and shipping errors. Ensure hot shots and urgent shipments are handled diligently and arrive timely.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for all logistics inquiries, providing updates to internal teams and clients.
• Ensure all operations comply with relevant regulations and safety standards.
• Maintain records of shipments and logistics activities, providing regular reports to management.
• Track budgets and control costs, consolidate freight and challenge the central freight forwarder to find optimal solutions to reduce logistics costs.

Skills and Experience

• GCC experience (KSA, Qatar, UAE, and/or Oman) is essential.
• Previous logistics experience within West or East Africa would be an advantage.
• Proven experience in marine logistics or shipping operations.
• Proven experience arranging and handling urgent/hot shot air freight shipments.
• Good knowledge of marine and air freight processes, Incoterms, customs clearance, and shipping documentation.
• Knowledge of maritime regulations and relevant safety protocols.
• Strong organisational and multitasking skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills.
• Excellent problem-solving skills with the ability to respond effectively to logistical challenges and urgent requirements.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in data management.
• Proficiency in logistics software and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
• Flexibility to be available occasionally outside normal business hours to manage urgent shipments.

Qualifications:

• Relevant Bachelor's Degree or Diploma.
• Qualifications and experience should meet applicable national regulations and/or client requirements.