Role Overview for Head of Freight Brokerage
JRG Partners, a premier executive search firm specializing in the logistics and supply chain sectors, is actively seeking a visionary and results-driven Head of Freight Brokerage. This pivotal executive leadership role offers an unparalleled opportunity to shape the future of a rapidly expanding freight brokerage division, driving strategic growth, operational excellence, and market leadership.
As the Head of Freight Brokerage, you will be responsible for the full spectrum of activities related to building, scaling, and optimizing a high-performance freight brokerage operation. This includes developing and executing strategic plans, managing P&L, fostering client relationships, leading a talented team, and leveraging cutting-edge technology to deliver superior service and competitive advantage.
The ideal candidate will possess a deep understanding of the transportation industry, a proven track record of P&L growth within a brokerage environment, and an unwavering commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction. You will be instrumental in identifying new market opportunities, expanding our service offerings (including Full Truckload (FTL), Less Than Truckload (LTL), Intermodal, Expedited, and Specialized freight), and building a robust network of carriers and shippers.
This is a unique chance to make a significant impact within a dynamic organization, influencing strategic direction and contributing directly to JRG Partners’ continued success in the logistics ecosystem. We are looking for a leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, can inspire a team to achieve ambitious goals, and possesses the strategic acumen to navigate the complexities of the modern freight market.
This role demands not only tactical execution but also a forward-thinking approach to anticipate industry trends and position our brokerage for sustained long-term success. You will be at the forefront of integrating technology, optimizing processes, and ensuring compliance, all while maintaining a relentless focus on profitability and operational efficiency. If you are a seasoned freight brokerage executive with a passion for leadership, growth, and innovation, we invite you to explore this exceptional opportunity.
Key Responsibilities of Head of Freight Brokerage
Strategic Leadership & Vision
Develop and execute a comprehensive strategic plan for the freight brokerage division, aligning with the overall company objectives. Identify market trends, competitive landscapes, and emerging technologies to position the brokerage for sustainable growth and profitability. Define short-term and long-term goals, key performance indicators (KPIs), and success metrics for all operational areas. Drive innovation in service offerings and operational processes.
P&L Management & Financial Performance
Assume full ownership of the division’s profit and loss (P&L) statement. Develop and manage budgets, forecast revenue and expenses, and implement strategies to optimize profitability and achieve financial targets. Analyze financial performance, identify areas for improvement, and implement corrective actions. Ensure cost-effective operations while maintaining high service quality.
Operations Excellence & Process Optimization
Oversee all aspects of daily brokerage operations, ensuring efficiency, accuracy, and adherence to best practices. Implement and refine operational processes, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality control measures. Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery, reduce cycle times, and improve overall operational effectiveness. This includes carrier procurement, load tendering, dispatch, tracking, and settlement processes.
Sales & Business Development
Lead and mentor the sales team, setting ambitious sales targets and developing effective strategies to acquire new clients and expand existing relationships. Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with key shippers and carriers. Represent the company at industry events, conferences, and networking functions to enhance brand visibility and generate new business opportunities. Develop compelling proposals and presentations.
Team Leadership & Talent Development
Recruit, hire, train, and mentor a high-performing team of freight brokers, sales professionals, and operations staff. Foster a positive, collaborative, and results-oriented work environment. Conduct performance reviews, provide constructive feedback, and identify professional development opportunities to ensure continuous growth and retention of top talent. Develop succession plans for key roles within the division.
Technology & Innovation Adoption
Evaluate, select, and implement advanced transportation management systems (TMS), CRM software, and other logistics technology solutions to enhance operational efficiency, data analytics capabilities, and customer experience. Champion the adoption of digital tools and automation to streamline processes and gain a competitive edge. Stay abreast of technological advancements in the logistics industry.
Compliance & Risk Management
Ensure full compliance with all federal, state, and local transportation regulations, including FMCSA guidelines. Implement robust risk management strategies to mitigate operational, financial, and legal risks. Oversee carrier vetting processes, insurance requirements, and safety protocols. Maintain a strong ethical framework across all operations.
Customer Relationship Management
Establish and nurture strong, long-lasting relationships with key clients. Act as a primary point of contact for strategic accounts, addressing concerns, identifying opportunities, and ensuring exceptional service delivery. Develop customer retention strategies and monitor customer satisfaction levels.
Market Analysis & Competitive Positioning
Conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis to identify industry trends, pricing strategies, and service innovations. Leverage this intelligence to refine the brokerage’s value proposition and maintain a competitive edge. Understanding the dynamic landscape of global supply chains and freight market dynamics is crucial for success in this role.
Requirements for the Head of Freight Brokerage
Experience
Minimum of 10-15 years of progressive leadership experience within the freight brokerage industry, with at least 5-7 years in a senior management or executive role (e.g., VP of Operations, General Manager, or similar). Proven track record of successfully growing and managing a significant P&L within a freight brokerage operation.
Education
Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is required. An MBA or Master’s degree in a relevant discipline is highly preferred.
Industry Knowledge
Deep and comprehensive understanding of various freight modes including Full Truckload (FTL), Less Than Truckload (LTL), Intermodal, Flatbed, Temperature-Controlled, and Specialized Transportation. Strong knowledge of North American freight markets, pricing strategies, carrier networks, and regulatory compliance (FMCSA).
Leadership & Management
Demonstrated ability to build, lead, mentor, and motivate high-performing teams. Exceptional strategic thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Proven ability to drive change and implement new initiatives effectively.
Financial Acumen
Strong financial management skills, including budgeting, forecasting, P&L responsibility, and cost control. Ability to analyze complex financial data and make data-driven decisions.
Sales & Business Development
Proven experience in driving sales growth, developing new business opportunities, and managing key client relationships. Excellent negotiation, presentation, and communication skills (written and verbal).
Technical Proficiency
Advanced proficiency with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), CRM software (e.g., Salesforce), and other relevant logistics technologies. Strong analytical skills with the ability to leverage data for insights and decision-making.
Communication & Interpersonal Skills
Superior communication, negotiation, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively interact with all levels of an organization, as well as external partners and clients.
Adaptability
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing multiple priorities and adapting to changing market conditions.
Benefits & Perks Offered
JRG Partners values its executive talent and offers a comprehensive and highly competitive compensation package designed to attract and retain the industry’s best. This includes:
Competitive Base Salary
An attractive base salary commensurate with experience and industry standards.
Performance-Based Bonus & Incentives
Significant opportunities for performance-based bonuses tied to the division’s growth and profitability, ensuring your direct impact is rewarded.
Equity/Stock Options
Potential for equity participation or stock options, aligning your success directly with the company’s long-term value creation.
Comprehensive Health & Wellness
Robust medical, dental, and vision insurance plans for you and your family, with options for PPO and HMO coverage.
Retirement Savings
A generous 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions, helping you plan for your financial future.
Paid Time Off
Ample paid vacation, sick leave, and company holidays to ensure work-life balance and rejuvenation.
Professional Development
Access to executive coaching, industry conferences, leadership training programs, and ongoing learning opportunities to support your continuous professional growth.
Flexible Work Arrangements
Potential for flexible work arrangements, including remote work options, to support a healthy work-life integration.
Executive Perks
Additional benefits such as car allowance, executive expense accounts, and other perquisites typical for a senior leadership role.
Dynamic Work Environment
Join a collaborative, innovative, and supportive culture where your contributions are recognized and valued.
How to Apply
If you are a proven leader in freight brokerage with a passion for driving growth and operational excellence, we encourage you to apply.
This is an exceptional opportunity to join a leading executive search firm and make a significant impact on our clients’ success and our own expanding operations. To express your interest and be considered for this Head of Freight Brokerage position, please submit your detailed resume and a cover letter outlining your relevant experience and vision for this role.
JRG Partners is committed to diversity and equal opportunity. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.
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