Operations Manager

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Role: Operations Manager
Employer: STACKS Sierra Leone
Reports to: General Manager/CEO
Application Deadline: December 12th, 2025
Location: Freetown, Sierra Leone

 

Application Instructions: Submit CV and Cover Letter to info@afriqia-solutions.com with “Operations Manager” in Subject Line.

 

About STACKS

Founded in 2010 as a South African freight forwarding company, STACKS has since expanded into Mauritius, Ivory Coast, and Sierra Leone. 

STACKS Mission: Connecting Africa to the world through traditional freight forwarding solutions and innovative online services. 

STACKS Vision: To be Africa’s most trusted logistics partner, with a strong focus on projects, commodities, mining, liquid bulk, and e-commerce. 

We combine innovation, people-centric values, and deep industry expertise to deliver logistics solutions that drive growth and empower businesses across the continent.

 

Role Overview: Operations Manager oversees and coordinates all day-to-day operational activities of the freight forwarding and customs clearance business in Sierra Leone. This includes:

  • Managing import and export shipments
  • Overseeing customs documentation and clearance
  • Liaising with ministries, customs, and port authorities
  • Supervising warehousing and transport
  • Maintaining strong relationships with customers and partners

This is a hands-on leadership role in a fast-paced logistics environment, focused on operational excellence and customer satisfaction.

 

Key Responsibilities

  1. Freight Forwarding Operations
  • Plan, coordinate, and monitor all import and export shipments (air, sea, and land).
  • Liaise with international agents, shipping lines, airlines, and transporters to ensure timely cargo movement.
  • Prepare and review shipping documents (Bill of Lading, Airway Bill, Commercial Invoice, Packing List, etc.).
  • Manage container tracking, demurrage control, and cargo delivery scheduling to ensure agreed timelines are met.

 

  1. Customs Clearance
  • Supervise preparation and submission of customs documentation (ASYCUDA entries, IDF, etc.).
  • Ensure full compliance with Sierra Leone National Revenue Authority (NRA) customs regulations and procedures.
  • Escalate and resolve customs queries, tariff classification issues, and valuation disputes promptly.
  • Maintain strong working relationships with customs officers and port authorities.

 

  1. Warehousing and Transportation
  • Oversee deconsolidation operations and cargo inspection in the warehouse.
  • Manage dispatch and delivery schedules for customers across Sierra Leone.
  • Monitor the condition of cargo-handling equipment and vehicles, ensuring maintenance, safety, and operational readiness.

 

  1. Team Leadership and Performance
  • Supervise operations staff, including clearing officers, dispatchers, port agents, and drivers.
  • Train, coach, and mentor team members to improve efficiency, compliance, and service quality.
  • Develop, implement, and enforce Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for all key operational functions.

 

  1. Compliance, Safety, and Reporting
  • Ensure compliance with all local laws, customs regulations, and company policies.
  • Implement and monitor occupational health and safety standards across operations.
  • Prepare and present weekly and monthly performance and KPI reports to management.

 

Qualifications & Experience

  • Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related field.
  • Minimum 5 years’ experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or customs brokerage, with at least 2 years in a supervisory or managerial role.
  • Strong knowledge of Sierra Leone port, customs, and ministry procedures.
  • Proven ability to manage people and operations under pressure.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook) and logistics management software.

 

Key Competencies

  • Solution-driven and proactive attitude
  • Strong organizational and planning skills
  • Excellent communication and presentation skills
  • Ability to work independently and make quick, sound decisions
  • High attention to detail and strong problem-solving ability
  • Integrity and professional ethics
  • Team leadership and motivation skills