Supply Chain Operations Specialist Italian speaking
Job Title: Supply Chain & Operations Specialist Italian speaking
Location: Hertfordshire (direct train rom Moorgate / Finsbury Park stations); onsite, 5 days a week, 9AM to 5.30, early finish on Friday.
Salary: Competitive (dependent on experience) + annual bonus depending on company and personal performance.
About the Company
Our client is a small but established food import business supplying major UK retailers. Working closely with European manufacturing partners and UK distribution networks, they are looking for a Logistics & Shipping Manager to take ownership of the day-to-day logistics operations and ensure smooth product flow from supplier to customer.
The Role
This is a hands-on operational role focused on coordinating / managing international shipping, inventory flow, and customer deliveries. You will be responsible for coordinating shipments, managing stock levels, and ensuring high service levels to key retail clients.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage end-to-end logistics operations, ensuring efficient movement of goods from European suppliers to UK customers
- Coordinate international sea freight and domestic transport, liaising with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and hauliers
- Handle import/export processes, ensuring all customs documentation and compliance requirements are met
- Manage customer orders in line with contract agreements, ensuring accuracy and timely delivery
- Work closely with suppliers and internal teams to track shipments and resolve delays or issues
- Support inventory planning and stock control using WMS systems to maintain optimal stock levels
- Monitor delivery performance and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and reduce costs
- Handle customer service issues including shortages, damages, and claims
- Manage debit/credit notes and support resolution of commercial discrepancies
- Ensure quality control standards are maintained across the supply chain
Skills & Experience
- Proven experience in logistics, shipping, or supply chain coordination (ideally within food import/distribution)
- Knowledge of international freight (sea freight preferred) and UK import procedures
- Experience with customs documentation and compliance requirements
- Familiarity with WMS or inventory management systems
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication skills and ability to work with suppliers, customers, and logistics partners
Desirable
- Experience working with UK supermarket retailers
- Knowledge of chilled or perishable goods logistics
- Exposure to ERP systems