Estimator M/F at Africa's Global Logistics (AGL)

Job Purpose:

• Estimates main function is to ensure all estimate requests are completed and submitted within the required time scope.

Job Function:

• Deal Directly with customers either by telephone or electronically
• Obtain and evaluate all relevant information to handle enquiries
• Negotiate rates and compile estimates according to shipment requirements
• Assessing viability of business, negotiating rates, planning of scope of work and presenting tenders to clients
• Ensure total accuracy of all quotations submitted (to be signed off by relevant BU Managers)
• Ensure all quotations are carried out profitably
• Quotation negotiations to be based on quality of the service offered, as well as cost
• Communicate and coordinate with internal departments
• Handover shipments to internal departments – interface essential
• Liaise and communicate with AGL network regularly
• Negotiating rates with nominated and approved third parties upon request from client and AGL network
• Handling of general administrative tasks
• Complete handovers to operations for new business and existing as per the SOP
• Create a positive relationship with customers and ensuring the interaction the customer has with the business is an efficient satisfying experience.

Rate procurement & Estimates

• Sea and air freight rate negotiations with suppliers. Should we need more aggressive pricing the estimator must involve the European route Development Manager or the Head of Sea/Air freight
• Rate analysis to identify best rate (price and quality)
• Generating of estimates in accordance with approved rates
• Submitting estimates in accordance with approved rates
• Submitting estimates in line with target deadlines
• Monitor target deadlines with the aim of not missing specific deadlines
• Monitor success of estimates and tenders submitted
• Complete reporting requirements as required
• Maintain good communications with operational and administrative staff internally

Profile

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• As requested by clients and agents, source relevant rates, create and send accurate estimates
• Quotes will include all modes of transport
• Ensure that all quotes/ outcomes of quotes are registered on quotation module on a weekly basis
• All new business must be handed over to operations. The handover to include the completed estimate, rate sheet/ work sheet and the original customer enquiry
• Ensure that all quotes received from Sales and transporters are updated in the rate sheet
• Compile Tenders for projects
• Client servicing: Ensure regular communication with clients to ensure they are happy with AGL's service provided to them
• Concerto updating for all estimates and tenders sent to clients
• Ensure that contact details are correct and up-to-date. When required, assist external sales with identifying suitable hauliers for specific work they may be quoting on
• Ensure that records are kept of rates to ensure maximum mark-ups are applied and negotiate best rates with the shipping lines. Ensure operations are updated with the relevant shipping lines to be used and their buy rates
• Follow-up phone calls/ e-mails to be made to ensure quotations module is up to date with regards to accepted, in progress, lost, sent and to follow up
• Any other delegated tasks deemed as reasonable as assigned by the reporting manager

Minimum Education and Experience Requirements:

• Matric
• 2 years estimates experience
• 2-5 years' experience in freight forwarding air/ road, sea cargo