Trade Manager

About the role

The Trade Manager will lead Sallaum Lines’ commercial expansion across African markets. Reporting to senior leadership, the role focuses on identifying new business opportunities, building relationships with customers, agents and strategic partners, and supporting the growth of the company’s vehicle and cargo shipping services along key trade corridors.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and execute trade and commercial strategies to drive revenue growth and market share in Africa.
• Identify, evaluate and pursue new business opportunities and partnerships across corridors such as EU‑West Africa‑South Africa and US‑West Africa‑South Africa.
• Conduct market research to uncover emerging opportunities, customer segments, industry trends and competitive developments.
• Monitor market conditions, competitor activity, freight trends and trade developments to manage commercial risks.
• Promote Sallaum Lines’ services in South Africa, targeting vehicle manufacturers, freight forwarders and logistics partners.
• Maintain and grow relationships with existing and prospective customers, ensuring satisfaction and identifying upselling opportunities.
• Negotiate commercial agreements and contracts with customers, suppliers, distributors and partners.
• Collaborate with internal teams to align pricing strategies and ensure successful execution of trade activities.

Required profile

• Proven experience in commercial development or business development within shipping, logistics or related sectors.
• Strong knowledge of African trade corridors and the automotive logistics market.
• Excellent relationship‑building and negotiation abilities.
• Ability to conduct market analysis and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Results‑oriented mindset with a focus on revenue growth and market expansion.

Required skills