Operations Manager

Our client is a growing, specialized freight forwarding company operating in one of the logistics industry’s most interesting and demanding sectors: live events and entertainment.

Canada | Remote

Job ID: 10677

Compensation

• Salary: $110,000 – $130,000*
• Additional Compensation: Company profit-sharing program
• Location: Remote, anywhere in Canada, with preference for candidates based in Vancouver, Toronto, or Montreal
• Engagement: Independent contractor, working from home
• Schedule: Primarily Monday to Friday, with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities according to shipment and event requirements

*The stated compensation range reflects the full scope of the role as currently structured and is provided in accordance with pay transparency requirements. Offers are determined based on relevant experience, demonstrated skills, internal equity, and alignment with the role’s requirements. The upper end of the range is typically reserved for candidates who fully meet all requirements and qualifications outlined in this posting and the official job description.

The Opportunity

Our client is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to lead its freight forwarding operations, oversee a team of logistics professionals, and help shape the operational direction of its growing event and entertainment logistics business.

This senior leadership position combines strategic responsibility with hand-on involvement in complex international shipments. The successful candidate will oversee the coordination and execution of logistics projects supporting major events, productions, and exhibitions, where precision, responsiveness, and effective planning are critical.

Beyond managing day-to-day activities, you will have an important role in developing operational processes, strengthening carrier and client relationships, supporting team performance, and identifying opportunities to improve service delivery and profitability.

The position offers considerable variety and responsibility, with exposure to complex global movements and the opportunity to apply your freight forwarding expertise in a specialized, project-driven environment.

For an established logistics professional who enjoys leading people, solving difficult transportation challenges, and taking ownership of operational outcomes, this represents an engaging next step.

Position Description

As Operations Manager, you will provide leadership and operational oversight across international freight forwarding activities, ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, compliantly, and in accordance with client requirements.

Key Responsibilities Include

• Lead, coach, and mentor a team of freight forwarding professionals, providing direction on workloads, priorities, performance, and professional development.
• Manage the planning and execution of international logistics projects, coordinating shipments from initial client consultation through final delivery.
• Oversee the movement of equipment, production materials, exhibition goods, and other specialized cargo for time-sensitive international events.
• Develop operational strategies that support service quality, efficient resource utilization, and the company’s broader business objectives.
• Evaluate logistical and project-related risks, establish contingency plans, and address operational challenges before they affect delivery commitments.
• Oversee import and export requirements, including ATA Carnets, customs declarations, commercial documentation, and coordination with customs authorities.
• Establish and maintain productive relationships with international freight carriers, negotiating competitive rates, service arrangements, and shipping solutions.
• Serve as the primary escalation point for complex shipments, transportation disruptions, customs complications, client concerns, and other operational matters.
• Work closely with clients and service providers to assess project requirements, develop appropriate logistics solutions, and prepare competitive quotations.
• Manage project budgets, monitor costs, and identify opportunities to improve efficiency and commercial performance.
• Oversee shipment tracking, delivery coordination, project reporting, and the systems used to monitor operational activity.
• Collaborate with finance, customer service, and other internal functions to support consistent service delivery and effective operational coordination.
• Review existing procedures and introduce practical improvements that strengthen execution, reduce unnecessary costs, and support the company’s continued development.

Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in international freight forwarding, with a comprehensive understanding of import/export operations and international transportation.
• Previous experience managing or leading freight forwarding teams, including responsibility for operational performance, workload coordination, and employee development.
• Experience in event, entertainment, exhibition, or other specialized project logistics is strongly preferred.
• Demonstrated experience coordinating complex, time-sensitive shipments involving multiple carriers, international destinations, and customs jurisdictions.
• Practical knowledge of international shipping documentation, customs clearance procedures, and trade compliance requirements.
• Experience managing carrier relationships, negotiating freight rates, preparing quotations, and controlling project costs.
• A proven ability to manage competing operational priorities and resolve problems involving shipment delays, customs issues, cargo damage, or service disruptions.

Qualifications

• Strong leadership and people-management abilities, with the judgment and confidence to guide an experienced operations team.
• Excellent organizational and project management skills, including the ability to oversee multiple complex assignments simultaneously.
• A customer-focused approach and a commitment to maintaining high service standards in demanding circumstances.
• Sound commercial judgment and the ability to balance service requirements, operational efficiency, and cost considerations.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities, particularly when managing time-sensitive or unexpected logistical challenges.
• Advanced computer proficiency, particularly with Microsoft Excel, Outlook, and shipment management or tracking systems.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with clients, carriers, customs representatives, and internal colleagues.
• A self-directed and accountable working style, suited to a remote leadership position.
• Flexibility to respond to urgent shipment requirements outside regular business hours when necessary.

Additional Information

Date Posted: October 29, 2026

Job Type: Full-Time, Independent Contractor

Industries: Freight Forwarding

Job Categories: Logistics/Distribution/Warehousing

Manages Others: Yes

Required Travel: No

Relocation Assistance: No

Keywords: Freight Forwarding, Supply Chain & Logistics

Existing Vacancy

This is a critical role within the organization and, following the recruitment and selection process, the selected candidate should expect to receive an offer promptly.

Use of Artificial Intelligence

We do NOT use artificial intelligence to screen, rank, or select candidates. The merits of every single application will be judged by a human. AI may be used to craft correspondence or write a job posting, but never in the decision‑making as to candidate suitability.

Stoakley-Stewart Consultants Ltd. is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible recruitment experience. We consider all qualified individuals for client introduction and employment opportunities without regard to characteristics protected by applicable human rights legislation.

Accommodations are available upon request for applicants with disabilities throughout the recruitment, assessment, and selection process. If you require accommodation, please advise your Stoakley-Stewart recruitment consultant and we will work with you to meet your individual accessibility needs.