Logistics Lead

Role Summary: Hörmann Middle East FZE is seeking a hands-on Logistics Lead to take ownership of freight coordination, shipment execution, provider sourcing and negotiation, freight-cost control, invoice verification, logistics reporting, process compliance and continuous improvement across Middle East and Africa operations. This is not a supervision-only position. The successful candidate will personally manage operational cases while guiding, checking and improving the work quality of logistics support activities.Purpose of the Role Secure competitive and reliable shipping solutions while considering freight-market volatility, route changes, urgent cases and regional disruptions.Build, qualify and maintain a strong network of freight forwarders and logistics providers for sea, air, road, cross-trade and final-delivery requirements.Provide accurate logistics data, freight-cost trends, port-pair analysis, provider performance reports and management summaries to support commercial decisions.Improve logistics workflows, documentation discipline, reporting quality and cost-control practices across day-to-day operations.Key Responsibilities Shipment Execution and Coordination Plan, book, track and close inbound, outbound, cross-trade and final-delivery shipments according to customer, project, destination and timeline requirements.Coordinate with suppliers, customers, sales, finance, warehouse, procurement, drivers, transport support teams and external logistics partners to ensure smooth execution.Manage shipment issues, inventory concerns, documentation gaps, customs or port coordination matters and urgent recovery requirements through to closure.Freight Provider Management and Cost Control Source, evaluate, qualify and develop freight forwarders and logistics providers for sea, air and road freight requirements.Negotiate rates and service conditions, conduct RFQs, benchmark offers and recommend the best total-value solution based on cost, transit time, reliability and service quality.Develop alternative routes, ports, transport modes and recovery options for delayed, disrupted, urgent or cost-sensitive shipments.Invoice Verification, Reporting and Compliance Verify logistics invoices against approved quotations, agreed rates, shipment references and actual service scope before approval.Challenge invoice discrepancies, demurrage, detention, storage fees, penalties and other avoidable logistics costs.Maintain accurate SAP/ERP data, ME2M follow-up status, DocuSign approval records, Letters of Credit support documents, shipment logs and operational reports.Ensure workflows, SOPs, method statements, checklists, approvals, customs rules and documentation standards are followed.Leadership, Quality Control and Improvement Review the quality and accuracy of logistics support work, guide colleagues, follow up pending actions and implement corrective measures where required.Create or improve logistics templates, checklists, reports, workflows and operational documents to support efficiency, transparency and accountability.Drive continuous improvement in logistics coordination, freight-cost analysis, forwarder performance, process compliance and customer-service quality.Inventory Control and Warehouse ManagementCoordinate inventory movements, stock transfers, replenishment activities, and warehouse transactions to ensure material availability and support on-time project deliveries.Monitor inventory accuracy and warehouse stock levels, investigate discrepancies, support stock reconciliation activities, and work with warehouse teams to maintain reliable inventory records and efficient storage practices.Major TasksShipping invoice verificationDocusign coordination for approvalsFreight price / service negotiationsUpdated SAP/ERP monitoring (ME2M) and follow-up status for relevant logistics itemsForwarder performance assessmentQuarterly RFQ comparisonForwarder dispute handlingLogistics data collection / reportingSea, land and air price comparisonsPort-pair price monitoringLetter of Credit documentation supportInventory control, stock reconciliation and warehouse performance monitoringRequirements and SkillsProven experience in logistics coordination, freight forwarding, supply chain operations, provider management, invoice verification, shipment problem-solving and freight-cost control.Strong commercial awareness with the ability to identify cost-saving opportunities, challenge unnecessary logistics costs, and drive value through effective supplier and freight-forwarder management.Strong UAE freight, customs, free-zone and port knowledge, preferably including Jebel Ali Free Zone, Dubai Trade Portal, UAE Customs, DP World and Abu Dhabi Ports.A proactive team player who collaborates effectively with in-house logistics colleagues and across sales, finance, warehouse, procurement and external logistics partners to ensure seamless supply chain operations.Takes ownership, follows tasks through to closure, supports colleagues, and maintains high operational standards.Demonstrated ability to lead logistics activities, coordinate multiple stakeholders, and drive operational improvements in a dynamic business environment.SAP/ERP experience is preferred.Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain. Related field certification is an advantage.Strong negotiation, analytical, reporting, price-comparison, problem-solving, organizational, communication and attention-to-detail skills.Experience in industry such as building materials, construction materials, door systems, industrial equipment, project logistics, or similar technical products is highly preferred.