Job Overview & Organization Mission

Negotiate annual ocean freight service contracts, vessel container space allocations, and spot rates with major shipping lines.

Mainfreight Australia is seeking an experienced Senior Global Ocean Freight Procurement & Carrier Negotiations Manager based at our Noble Park logistics hub in Melbourne. You will manage procurement strategy for thousands of TEU container movements annually across transpacific, intra-Asia, and European maritime corridors.

As a key member of the team at Mainfreight Australia in Melbourne, VIC, you will play a central role in driving excellence, upholding top-tier Australian industry standards, and contributing directly to the strategic milestones of one of the nation’s premier employers.

Key Duties & Core Responsibilities

In this critical role, your operational duties and key performance responsibilities will encompass:

• Negotiate long-term: Negotiate long-term service contracts and spot rates with global ocean shipping lines (MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, COSCO).
• Secure space: Secure space protection guarantees and equipment allocations during peak international shipping seasons.
• Monitor container: Monitor container market spot rate benchmarks (SCFI, Drewry) to optimize procurement timing.
• Lead ocean: Lead ocean freight tender responses for multinational commercial enterprise accounts.
• Direct demurrage: Direct demurrage and detention mitigation programs for major import/export consignees.

Required Qualifications, Licenses & Experience

To be successful in this position at Mainfreight Australia, candidates are expected to satisfy the following essential selection criteria:

• Mandatory Qualification: Degree in Procurement, International Business, Maritime Economics, or Supply Chain.
• Relevant Experience: Minimum 5+ Years of verified industry experience in Australia or recognized overseas equivalence.
• Degree in Supply Chain, International Trade, Maritime Business, or Commercial Law.
• 6+ years experience in ocean freight procurement with an international freight forwarder or shipping line.
• Deep comprehension of maritime shipping contracts, maritime law, and Incoterms 2020.
• Powerful negotiation instincts and established carrier executive relationships.

Core Competencies & Key Technical Proficiencies

The successful applicant will possess demonstrated capabilities across the following domain skill sets:

Salary, Compensation & Employee Benefits

At Mainfreight Australia, we understand that our people drive our achievements. An outstanding remuneration and wellbeing package is provided in line with Australian benchmarks:

• Competitive Remuneration: AU$145,000 – AU$180,000 per year + standard Australian Superannuation (11.5%).
• Remuneration $145,000 – $180,000 + 11.5% super + Mainfreight global profit-share scheme.
• Unique family-focused company culture promoting from within.
• Extensive global career development opportunities.
• Leave Entitlements: 4 weeks annual leave (with 17.5% annual leave loading where applicable) plus 10 days paid personal/carer’s leave.
• Flexible Work: Progressive work-life balance options with supportive corporate culture and leadership development pathways.

About the Employer: Mainfreight Australia

Mainfreight is a global logistics provider offering managed warehousing, domestic transport, and international air and ocean freight.

Mainfreight Australia is deeply committed to building diverse, equitable, and culturally inclusive work environments. We proudly celebrate diversity and welcome applications from all qualified individuals including First Nations Australians, people with disabilities, and candidates from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.

Application Process & Next Steps

Applications for this position are currently open and being reviewed on a rolling basis. Suitable candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible before the published closing date.

Please prepare an updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) and a tailored Cover Letter highlighting your relevant experience against the key selection criteria outlined above.

To proceed with your application, click the Apply on Employer Site button to access the official Mainfreight Australia careers gateway.