Agency Manager (Shipping / Liner Agency / Commercial / Operations) – Guinea-Bissau, West Africa

Reference Number: 101-0311KV

Job Description:

Our client, a leading international shipping and logistics group with operations across Africa, is seeking an experienced Portuguese-speaking Agency Manager to oversee its shipping agency operations in Guinea-Bissau. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall operational, commercial and financial performance of the agency, ensuring efficient service delivery, business growth and compliance with shipping line principal requirements. Reporting to regional management, the role requires strong leadership, commercial acumen and the ability to manage stakeholder relationships within the West African maritime and logistics sector.

Responsibilities:

• Manage and oversee all shipping agency operations, including vessel calls, port operations, bookings, documentation, container equipment management and customer service.
• Act as the primary point of contact for shipping line principals, ensuring compliance with operational standards, service-level agreements, KPIs and reporting requirements.
• Drive commercial performance through business development, customer acquisition, sales initiatives and growth in shipping volumes.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with key customers, freight forwarders, port authorities, customs officials, logistics providers and other industry stakeholders.
• Monitor market trends, competitor activities and customer requirements to identify new business opportunities within Guinea-Bissau and the wider West African region.
• Lead, mentor and manage the agency team, ensuring effective coordination between commercial, operational, customer service and administrative functions.
• Oversee agency budgets, operating costs, invoicing, disbursement accounts, payment tracking and financial reporting.
• Monitor vessel turnaround times, port call performance, equipment availability and service delivery to ensure operational efficiency.
• Ensure compliance with local maritime regulations, customs procedures, shipping line requirements and internal company policies.
• Develop and implement standard operating procedures, process improvements and system enhancements to improve operational efficiency.
• Prepare regular operational, commercial and financial performance reports for regional management.
• Represent the agency in meetings with shipping line principals, customers, regulatory authorities and industry partners.

Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Maritime Studies, Business Administration or a related field.
• Minimum 4 years' experience within shipping, liner agency operations or freight forwarding, with demonstrated management responsibilities.
• Proven experience managing shipping agency operations or a shipping line office, including commercial and operational functions.
• Fluency in Portuguese is essential, with proficiency in English highly advantageous.
• Strong understanding of container shipping, vessel operations, port procedures, shipping documentation and equipment management.
• Demonstrated experience in business development, customer relationship management and commercial growth.
• Proven leadership experience, with the ability to manage multidisciplinary teams and drive operational performance.
• Previous experience working in Africa, preferably West Africa or Portuguese-speaking African countries, is highly advantageous.
• Experience working with international shipping lines or global carriers is advantageous.
• Strong financial management, budgeting, cost control and reporting capabilities.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to operate effectively within a multicultural and international business environment.

Package and Benefits

• Competitive expatriate package with a net salary in USD.
• Furnished accommodation provided.
• International medical insurance.
• Annual international flights.

Please visit www.mining-recruitment-jobs.com for more exciting opportunities.

Kerrin van Schalkwyk

Executive Talent Consultant

CA Mining

CA Mining will respond to short-listed candidates only. If you have not had any response in two weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful however your CV will be kept on our database for any other suitable positions.

CA Global Headhunters is an international staffing company with a specific focus on recruitment in Africa. Our extensive, diverse candidate network built up over 10 years comprises the most skilled and experienced candidates. We recruit talent of the highest standards across African sectors, including Mining, Oil & Gas, Engineering, Banking, Finance, Legal, Insurance, Commodities, and Agriculture. As African markets continue to grow and develop, so too does our skill and expertise, ensuring that we deliver the best service to both clients and candidates.

Thanks to our access to global networks and resources, we understand our clients’ cultures, operations, business strategies, and industries. We are always on par with the latest technologies and trends which assist us in sourcing the best talent for clients. Whatever stage of the project lifecycle, we can put forward the right candidates with the right skills.