Branch Manager / Start up

Branch Manager - Freight Forwarding (Start-Up) - London Heathrow - Up to £55,000 plus profit share We are seeking an experienced and commercially driven Branch Manager to lead the establishment and growth of a new freight forwarding branch at London Heathrow. This is a start-up leadership opportunity requiring a hands-on approach with a strong sales and operational background in freight forwarding, and a proven track record within AOG (Aircraft on Ground) and time-critical logistics. The successful candidate will be responsible for building the branch from the ground up - developing revenue, securing key accounts, establishing operational structure, recruiting staff, and delivering sustainable profitability. This is a high-autonomy role suited to an entrepreneurial freight professional who thrives on ownership and accountability. Job type: Full time / permanent Location: London Heathrow Package: £40,000-£50,000 plus Car allowance/Company car and profit share Key Responsibilities Commercial & Sales Leadership Develop and execute a branch growth strategy Secure new business, with a focus on AOG and time-critical freight customers Leverage existing industry relationships to generate revenue Negotiate rates with carriers and partners Build long-term customer partnershipsOperational Management Oversee daily freight forwarding operations Ensure service delivery meets time-critical and AOG sector expectations Maintain compliance with customs and international trade regulations Implement SOPs and performance standardsBranch & Team Development Over time with success, recruit, lead, and develop branch staff Establish structure, accountability, and performance KPIs Manage P&L responsibility and cost control Build a high-performance, service-focused culture from inceptionStrategic Responsibility Identify opportunities for vertical growth within urgent and AOG logistics Align branch strategy with wider business objectivesCandidate Profile We are looking for a proven freight forwarding professional who: Has significant experience in freight forwarding (sales and operations) for a UK-based freight forwarder Has strong sector knowledge within AOG / time-critical logistics Brings an existing customer network relevant to urgent cargo Has experience managing P&L and driving profitability Demonstrates strong commercial acumen and negotiation skills Has prior leadership or branch management experience (or ready to step up) Is entrepreneurial, resilient, and comfortable building from scratchIdeal Background Experience with urgent or AOG shipments Familiarity with airlines, MROs, and time-critical logistics customers High-pressure operational experience Customs knowledge (UK/EU and international freight)WR Logistics are the #1 recruitment partner for all vacancies in the logistics industry. We recruit in the UK & USA for permanent jobs. WR is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy