Africa District Commercial Manager at ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Limited

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Limited - In the fast-changing shipping world, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services has set itself apart as an independent carrier with a fresh, unique approach. ZIM’s strategy as a global niche carrier offers distinctive advantages to customers worldwide. We have created a smart, efficient network that ensures stable, reliable services; and we have made it our mission to focus on the needs of our customers, which stand at the heart of all our decisions.

ZIM operates in select trades, where it has a competitive advantage and where it can provide superior service. In these trades, ZIM is a significant player with a sizable market share. We maintain a flexible partnership approach with other major carriers, and our new line structure is a much-needed alternative to customers concerned about the current alliance-dominated market.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Africa District Commercial Manager

Job Id: 9E.E55
Location: Lagos, Nigeria
Category: Commercial

Key Responsibilities
Strategic and Commercial Management (40%):

• Develop and execute the commercial strategy for Eastbound and Westbound trades within the district with direction from BU .
• Analyze trade statistics, commercial performance, and market trends to identify opportunities and propose corrective or proactive actions.
• Define and implement allocation, pricing, and segmentation strategies in coordination with Business Unit and Line Managers.
• Drive initiatives to optimize vessel utilization and enhance overall line profitability.
• Contribute to the development of inland haulage activities to and from landlocked countries.
• Represent the district in discussions with Cargo Flow, Sales, and Head Office units.
• Maintain accurate and up-to-date customer and market data for the region.

Performance Monitoring and Optimization (40%):

• Monitor vessel allocation, cargo mix, and line performance to ensure revenue and utilization targets are achieved.
• Review and approve pricing, demurrage, detention, and deposit waiver requests within authorized limits.
• Identify commercial gaps and develop corrective action plans to meet budgeted targets.
• Coordinate with Line Cargo Flow and Operations on issues affecting trade performance, including transshipment and weight optimization.
• Manage key customer relationships and oversee VIP and strategic accounts.
• Produce weekly, monthly and quarterly management reports on commercial and statistical activity to track progress and guide decision-making.

Team Leadership and Collaboration (20%):

• Lead, mentor, and develop African Agency commercial managers across A5 Africa  
• Promote effective communication and collaboration between commercial, operations, and logistics teams.
• Challenge and monitor each country’s commercial performance against set objectives.
• Champion the implementation and adoption of Group Digital Systems to enhance customer experience and internal efficiency.
• Foster a high-performance, customer-oriented culture focused on teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration, Economics, Industrial Engineering, or related field.
• Master’s degree or MBA is an advantage.
• Minimum of 7–10 years’ experience in commercial or sales management within the shipping or logistics industry.
• Proven track record of managing regional or multi-country teams.
• Strong knowledge of the African shipping and inland logistics market.
• Demonstrated understanding of pricing, allocation, and revenue optimization processes.
• Fluent in English language.

Application Closing Date
Not Specified.

How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should:
Click here to apply online