Product Marketing Lead (Product Owner / BA / UX) - #35216

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Senior Operations Manager - #35216

Company: Manila Recruitment (Client Company)

Location: Manila, Metro Manila, Philippines

Job Type: FULL_TIME

Category: Operations Management / Logistics & Supply Chain

Date Posted: 2026-07-31

Experience Level: 5-10 Years

Remote Status: Remote Solely

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead and oversee comprehensive operations for customs brokerage, logistics, warehousing, and freight forwarding, ensuring exceptional service delivery and operational excellence.

• Manage and mentor cross-functional departments including operations, sales, finance, compliance, and customer service to foster a cohesive and high-performing team.

• Design, implement, and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and quality management systems, including ISO standards and Lean Six Sigma principles, to drive continuous operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

• Develop and manage operational budgets, ensuring optimal resource allocation and cost-effectiveness in all operational activities.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a Senior Operations Manager, focusing on the operational backbone of a customs brokerage firm. The emphasis on ISO standards, Lean Six Sigma, and KPIs indicates a strong need for process optimization, data-driven decision-making, and a structured approach to operational management, aligning perfectly with the principles of Revenue Operations and Sales Operations by ensuring efficiency, scalability, and customer satisfaction which directly impact the bottom line.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Spearhead the operational strategy for customs brokerage, logistics, warehousing, and freight forwarding, ensuring seamless execution and timely, accurate service delivery in line with company objectives.

• Directly manage and supervise all departmental functions, including operations, sales, finance, compliance, and customer service, promoting interdepartmental synergy and goal alignment.

• Develop, implement, and continuously refine operational processes and performance metrics (KPIs) to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate customer satisfaction levels.

• Champion the implementation and adherence to ISO standards and quality management initiatives, leveraging Lean Six Sigma methodologies to foster a culture of continuous improvement and operational excellence.

• Oversee the creation and management of operational budgets, ensuring strategic allocation of resources to meet departmental and company-wide goals while maintaining fiscal responsibility.

• Provide strong leadership, coaching, and development opportunities for the operations team, cultivating an environment of accountability, collaboration, and high performance.

• Actively engage with key clients and industry partners, serving as a company representative at industry events and client meetings to build and maintain strong relationships.

• Prepare and present comprehensive, regular performance reports to senior management, offering strategic insights and actionable recommendations for operational enhancements and business growth.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly indicate a strategic leadership role focused on end-to-end operational oversight within the customs brokerage and logistics sector. The emphasis on process design, KPI implementation, ISO, and Lean Six Sigma points to a need for a candidate adept at driving operational efficiency and quality improvements, which are core tenets of effective revenue and sales operations.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Logistics, Customs Administration, Supply Chain Management, or a closely related field.

• Postgraduate degree (MBA or equivalent) is considered advantageous, demonstrating advanced business acumen and strategic thinking. Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years of progressive experience in customs brokerage, logistics, freight forwarding, FMCG, or broader supply chain management.

• Demonstrated experience in managing multidepartment teams, showcasing strong leadership and organizational capabilities.

• Proven track record in process design, implementation, and optimization, with a focus on improving operational efficiency and customer satisfaction. Required Skills:

• Operations Management: Proven ability to lead and manage complex operational functions within the logistics and customs brokerage sector.

• Customs Brokerage & Logistics Expertise: In-depth knowledge of customs regulations, import/export procedures, warehousing, and freight forwarding operations.

• Process Improvement Methodologies: Strong understanding and practical application of ISO standards, Lean Six Sigma principles, and quality management systems.

• Leadership & Team Development: Exceptional ability to lead, mentor, and develop diverse teams, fostering a collaborative and results-oriented work environment.

• Financial Acumen: Experience in budgeting, resource allocation, and financial oversight for operational departments.

• Analytical & Problem-Solving: A robust analytical mindset with the capacity to identify, analyze, and resolve complex operational challenges effectively.

• Communication & Negotiation: Excellent verbal and written communication, presentation, and negotiation skills for client and stakeholder engagement.

• Technology Proficiency: Proficient in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Google Workspace applications.

Preferred Skills:

• Fluency in Hokkien or Mandarin, providing a significant advantage in communication with international partners and clients.

• Graduates from prestigious institutions such as La Salle, Ateneo, UP, PUP, PLM, or recognized international schools.

• Any relevant professional credentials or certifications in logistics, supply chain, operations management, or quality systems.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications highlight a need for a seasoned operations leader with sector-specific expertise. The emphasis on process improvement methodologies like Lean Six Sigma and ISO, alongside leadership and analytical skills, aligns with the requirements for optimizing GTM processes and ensuring operational efficiency, which are critical for revenue operations. The age requirement of 30-40 years suggests a desire for candidates with a solid foundation of experience and maturity.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Process Optimization Case Studies: Showcase projects where you redesigned or significantly improved operational workflows within customs brokerage, logistics, or warehousing, detailing the methodology used (e.g., Lean Six Sigma, process mapping) and the tangible outcomes.

• KPI Development & Performance Tracking: Provide examples of KPIs you designed and implemented to measure operational efficiency, service delivery, and customer satisfaction, along with evidence of how you tracked and reported on these metrics.

• Quality Management System Implementation: Detail your experience in implementing or managing quality systems, such as ISO certification processes, including documentation, audits, and continuous improvement initiatives.

• Budget Management & Resource Allocation: Present evidence of your ability to manage operational budgets, including examples of cost-saving initiatives or strategic resource allocation that led to improved ROI.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate your ability to create clear, concise, and actionable process documentation, including standard operating procedures (SOPs), workflow diagrams, and training materials for operations teams.

• Highlight experience in documenting the implementation of new processes or system changes, ensuring clarity on steps, responsibilities, and expected results.

• Showcase your approach to documenting performance analysis, including how you translate data into insights for further process refinement and strategic decision-making.

📝 Enhancement Note: For an operations leadership role, a portfolio demonstrating concrete process improvements and measurable results is crucial. This section is designed to prompt candidates to showcase their ability to apply operations principles to drive efficiency and quality, directly impacting business performance. This is highly relevant for GTM operations roles that focus on streamlining processes and improving outcomes.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for Senior Operations Managers with 5-10 years of experience in the Philippines, particularly in the logistics and customs brokerage sector, and considering the remote nature of the role, an estimated salary range of ₱80,000 to ₱150,000 per month is anticipated. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, qualifications, and negotiation. Benefits:

• Remote Work Advantage: Full-time remote position offering flexibility and work-life balance.

• Health Coverage: Comprehensive health insurance package, potentially including medical, dental, and vision coverage.

• Paid Time Off: Generous vacation leave, sick leave, and potentially holidays, in accordance with Philippine labor laws and company policy.

• Professional Development: Opportunities for training, certifications (e.g., Lean Six Sigma, ISO), and attendance at industry conferences to enhance skills and career growth.

• Performance Bonuses: Potential for performance-based bonuses tied to achieving operational KPIs and company profitability.

• Retirement Plan: Contributions to a retirement fund or employee savings plan.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time working hours, typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility to accommodate operational needs and client demands. Specific daily schedules will be discussed during the interview process, with a focus on output and results over strict time-based adherence.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on research of similar Senior Operations Manager roles in Manila, Philippines, considering the logistics and customs brokerage industry, and factoring in the remote work arrangement which can sometimes command a premium or differ from on-site compensation. Benefits are standard for full-time roles in the Philippines, with an emphasis on professional development relevant to operations management.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Customs Brokerage, Logistics, Warehousing, and Freight Forwarding. This sector is critical to international trade and domestic supply chains, requiring high levels of accuracy, efficiency, and compliance. The client operates as a registered and accredited customs brokerage with the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Company Size: While not explicitly stated, a company with multiple departments (operations, sales, finance, compliance, customer service) and operating across all collection districts of the Bureau of Customs suggests a medium to large-sized organization, likely employing over 50 individuals.

Founded: The company has an established presence as a registered and accredited customs brokerage, indicating it has been operating for a significant period, likely several years, to build its reputation and operational footprint.

Team Structure:

• The Operations Manager will lead a complex structure encompassing distinct departments: Operations, Sales, Finance, Compliance, and Customer Service. This implies a matrix-style reporting structure where the manager oversees multiple functional areas.

• The reporting structure is likely hierarchical within each department, with the Senior Operations Manager reporting to senior executive leadership (e.g., CEO, COO, or Board of Directors), providing strategic direction and performance updates.

• Cross-functional collaboration is essential, requiring the manager to foster strong working relationships between departments to ensure seamless end-to-end service delivery for clients, from sales engagement through to customs clearance and logistics. Methodology:

• Data Analysis and Insights: Emphasis on using data from operations, sales, and finance to identify trends, inefficiencies, and opportunities for improvement, informing strategic decisions.

• Workflow Planning and Optimization: Application of structured methodologies (like Lean Six Sigma) to map, analyze, and re-engineer operational workflows for enhanced efficiency, speed, and accuracy.

• Automation and Efficiency Practices: Exploration and implementation of tools and technologies to automate repetitive tasks, streamline processes, and improve overall operational output.

Company Website: manilarecruitment.com (This is the recruitment agency's website, the client's specific website is not provided but is a registered customs brokerage).

📝 Enhancement Note: This section contextualizes the role within the specific industry and organizational structure. Understanding the company's focus on customs brokerage and its operational scope is key to appreciating the challenges and responsibilities of the Senior Operations Manager. The emphasis on data, workflow, and automation aligns with GTM operations principles.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a significant leadership position within the operations domain. As a Senior Operations Manager, the individual is responsible for strategic planning, departmental oversight, and driving operational excellence across multiple critical functions. This level typically requires a seasoned professional with substantial experience in managing complex operations and teams, with a direct impact on the company's profitability and client retention.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Operations Manager will likely report directly to the highest levels of management, such as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) or Chief Executive Officer (CEO), depending on the company's organizational structure. This high-level reporting line underscores the strategic importance of the role and the expectation for significant contribution to business objectives.

Operations Impact: The success of a customs brokerage and logistics firm is intrinsically tied to its operational efficiency, accuracy, and reliability. This role has a direct and profound impact on:

• Revenue Generation: Efficient operations lead to faster service delivery, increased client satisfaction, and greater capacity for handling more business, directly boosting revenue.

• Cost Management: Optimization of processes and resource allocation directly controls operational costs, enhancing profitability.

• Client Retention & Acquisition: Superior operational performance builds trust and a strong reputation, leading to higher client retention and attracting new business through referrals and positive market perception.

• Compliance & Risk Mitigation: Ensuring adherence to customs regulations and operational standards minimizes risks of penalties, delays, and legal issues.

Growth Opportunities:

• Executive Leadership: Progression to higher executive roles such as VP of Operations, Chief Operating Officer (COO), or even Chief Executive Officer (CEO), particularly within the logistics and supply chain sector.

• Specialized Operations Leadership: Opportunity to lead larger, more complex operational divisions, or to specialize in areas like international logistics strategy, supply chain digitization, or global trade compliance.

• Consulting/Advisory Roles: Leveraging extensive experience to move into operations consulting or advisory positions, assisting other companies in optimizing their supply chain and logistics functions.

• Continuous Learning: Access to advanced training, certifications (e.g., advanced Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, supply chain certifications), and industry forums to stay at the forefront of operational best practices and emerging technologies.

📝 Enhancement Note: This analysis positions the role as a critical leadership function with significant strategic influence. The growth opportunities highlight a clear career path for ambitious operations professionals, emphasizing the transferable skills and high-level impact associated with this position.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role is designated as Remote Solely. This means the primary work environment will be a home office setup, requiring self-discipline, effective time management, and a reliable internet connection. The company will provide necessary digital tools and support for remote collaboration.

Office Location(s): While the role is remote, the company is headquartered in the Philippines, with operations spanning all collection districts of the Bureau of Customs. The primary operational footprint and client base are within the Philippines. Candidates are expected to be based in the Philippines, specifically within or accessible to the Manila, Metro Manila region due to potential occasional needs for physical presence or proximity to key stakeholders.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: Despite being remote, the company emphasizes a strong culture of collaboration. Expect frequent virtual meetings, use of collaboration platforms (e.g., Slack, Microsoft Teams), and a need to actively engage with team members and stakeholders across different departments.

• Operations Tools and Technology: Access to a suite of digital tools for communication, project management, CRM, and potentially specialized logistics/customs brokerage software will be provided or expected to be utilized remotely.

• Operations Team Interaction: Regular interaction with direct reports and peers across sales, finance, and compliance will be facilitated through virtual channels, requiring proactive communication and engagement strategies.

Work Schedule: The standard 40-hour work week will apply, with the flexibility inherent in a remote role. While specific hours may vary to accommodate operational demands and cross-time zone collaboration, the focus will be on delivering results and maintaining availability for critical business functions and team interactions. This schedule allows for dedicated periods for deep work, strategic planning, and team management.

📝 Enhancement Note: The remote-first nature of this role necessitates a candidate who is self-motivated and adept at virtual collaboration. The context highlights the need for strong digital communication skills and the ability to maintain productivity outside a traditional office setting, while still fostering team cohesion and operational alignment.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of your resume and application to assess alignment with the core requirements, particularly experience in customs brokerage, logistics, and management.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A discussion with the hiring manager to delve deeper into your operational leadership experience, strategic thinking, and understanding of the logistics and customs brokerage industry. Be prepared to discuss your approach to managing teams and driving efficiency.

• Operations Challenge/Case Study: You may be presented with a hypothetical operational challenge relevant to customs brokerage or logistics. This assesses your problem-solving skills, analytical approach, and ability to propose practical, data-driven solutions. This is where your portfolio examples will be highly valuable.

• Cross-Functional Team Interview: An opportunity to meet with key stakeholders from other departments (e.g., Sales, Finance, Compliance) to evaluate your collaboration style, communication effectiveness, and cultural fit within the broader organization.

• Final Interview: A conclusive interview with senior leadership to discuss overall fit, strategic vision, and final compensation.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Quantify Achievements: For each portfolio item, clearly state the problem, your solution, and the quantifiable results. Use metrics like percentage improvements in delivery time, cost reductions, error rate decreases, or customer satisfaction score increases.

• Process Focus: Structure your case studies around the processes you improved. Use flowcharts or diagrams to illustrate "before" and "after" states, highlighting your role in the transformation.

• Tools & Methodologies: Explicitly mention the tools (e.g., MS Excel for analysis, specific CRM/ERP if applicable) and methodologies (Lean, Six Sigma, ISO standards) you employed.

• Tailor to the Role: Emphasize experiences most relevant to customs brokerage, logistics, and management of diverse teams. Highlight any experience with ISO, Lean Six Sigma, or quality management systems.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Present your portfolio in a clear, organized, and concise manner. A well-structured presentation deck or a detailed document is recommended.

Challenge Preparation:

• Industry Research: Thoroughly research current trends, challenges, and regulations in the Philippine customs brokerage and logistics industry.

• Operational Metrics: Familiarize yourself with common KPIs and metrics used in logistics and supply chain management.

• Problem-Solving Framework: Practice applying frameworks like SWOT analysis, root cause analysis, or DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) to operational problems.

• Stakeholder Communication: Prepare to explain complex operational strategies and solutions clearly and persuasively to different types of stakeholders.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for navigating the interview process, emphasizing the critical role of a well-prepared portfolio in demonstrating practical skills and impact, especially for operations leadership roles.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Advanced proficiency in Excel (for data analysis, modeling, reporting), Word (for documentation), PowerPoint (for presentations and strategic proposals), and Outlook (for communication and scheduling).

• Google Workspace: Familiarity with Google Sheets, Docs, Slides, and Drive for collaborative document creation and management.

• Customs Brokerage Software: Experience with industry-specific software for customs declaration, shipment tracking, and regulatory compliance is highly advantageous.

• Logistics & Supply Chain Management (LSCM) Software: Familiarity with platforms for inventory management, warehouse management systems (WMS), and transportation management systems (TMS).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Analysis Tools: Proficiency in using Excel for data manipulation and analysis. Experience with business intelligence tools like Tableau, Power BI, or similar platforms for creating dashboards and generating insights would be a significant plus.

• Reporting Tools: Ability to generate comprehensive operational reports, performance dashboards, and strategic summaries for senior management.

CRM & Automation:

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Experience using CRM systems to manage client interactions, track sales pipelines, and support customer service operations.

• Workflow Automation Tools: Familiarity with tools or methodologies that facilitate process automation to improve efficiency and reduce manual effort in operational tasks.

• Project Management Software: Experience with tools like Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or Jira for managing projects, tasks, and team workflows, especially in a remote setting.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section outlines the expected technical proficiency. A strong candidate will be adept at standard office productivity tools and possess experience with specialized logistics/customs software, data analysis, and potentially workflow automation, reflecting the technological demands of modern operations management.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Accountability & Ownership: A strong emphasis on taking responsibility for tasks, decisions, and outcomes, fostering a culture where individuals own their contributions and their impact.

• Efficiency & Continuous Improvement: A drive to constantly seek better ways of working, optimize processes, and reduce waste, aligning with Lean Six Sigma principles and a commitment to operational excellence.

• Customer Focus: Prioritizing client needs and satisfaction by ensuring timely, accurate, and reliable service delivery, recognizing that client success is paramount.

• Collaboration & Teamwork: Encouraging open communication and mutual support among team members and departments, understanding that seamless operations depend on collective effort.

• Integrity & Compliance: Upholding the highest ethical standards and ensuring strict adherence to all customs regulations, legal requirements, and company policies.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: Fostering a collaborative environment where departments work in synergy, breaking down silos to achieve unified business objectives. This involves proactive communication and shared problem-solving.

• Process Review Culture: Encouraging regular feedback loops on existing processes, where team members feel empowered to suggest improvements and participate in reviews without fear of repricussion.

• Knowledge Sharing: Promoting practices that facilitate the sharing of best practices, lessons learned, and operational insights across the team and the organization, often through virtual platforms and structured meetings.

📝 Enhancement Note: Understanding the company's core values and collaboration style is crucial for cultural fit. This section highlights the importance of a proactive, results-oriented, and team-player mindset, essential for a remote leadership role in a regulated industry.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Managing Remote Teams: Effectively leading, motivating, and monitoring performance of a dispersed team requires strong virtual leadership skills, clear communication protocols, and robust performance management systems.

• Navigating Regulatory Complexity: The customs brokerage industry is subject to evolving regulations and stringent compliance requirements. Staying abreast of these changes and ensuring consistent adherence across all operations is a continuous challenge.

• Driving Digital Transformation: Implementing and integrating new technologies or optimizing existing digital workflows within a traditional industry can face resistance. Championing change and demonstrating ROI are key.

• Maintaining Service Quality at Scale: As the company grows, ensuring that operational efficiency and service quality are maintained or improved without compromising accuracy or speed presents a significant scaling challenge.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Operations Skill Advancement: Opportunities to deepen expertise in areas like supply chain optimization, international trade compliance, advanced logistics analytics, and strategic operations planning.

• Industry Certifications: Support for obtaining or renewing certifications such as Lean Six Sigma Master Black Belt, Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP), or specialized customs brokerage credentials.

• Leadership Development: Access to executive coaching, leadership training programs, and mentorship opportunities to hone strategic decision-making and people management skills for higher-level roles.

• Exposure to Advanced Technologies: Potential to work with and implement cutting-edge logistics and supply chain technologies, including AI-driven analytics, IoT for tracking, and advanced automation solutions.

📝 Enhancement Note: This section addresses potential hurdles and highlights the developmental aspects of the role, providing candidates with a realistic view of the challenges and the significant opportunities for professional growth within the company and the industry.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to designing and implementing KPIs for a customs brokerage operation. Which metrics would you prioritize and why?" (Focus on demonstrating data-driven decision-making and understanding of operational impact).

• "How would you foster a culture of continuous improvement using Lean Six Sigma principles within a remote team environment?" (Highlight strategies for remote engagement, process mapping, and Kaizen events).

• "Walk me through a significant operational challenge you faced in logistics or customs brokerage, detailing your problem-solving process, the actions you took, and the measurable outcomes." (Prepare a STAR method answer, showcasing your portfolio's best examples). Company & Culture Questions:

• "What are your perceptions of the current state of the customs brokerage industry in the Philippines, and how do you see operations evolving?" (Demonstrate industry awareness and forward-thinking).

• "How do you build trust and ensure accountability with a remote team you are managing?" (Focus on communication strategies, performance management, and virtual team-building).

• "How do you ensure compliance with complex regulations like those from the Bureau of Customs while also driving operational efficiency?" (Showcase a balanced approach to risk management and process optimization). Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Storytelling: Frame your portfolio examples as compelling narratives. Start with the business problem, explain your strategic approach, detail the execution, and conclude with the measurable impact.

• Visual Aids: Be prepared to share your screen and walk through key documents, charts, or diagrams from your portfolio. Ensure visuals are clear, concise, and directly support your points.

• Focus on Impact: For each example, clearly articulate the ROI or business value generated. Connect your actions directly to improvements in efficiency, cost savings, revenue growth, or client satisfaction.

• Relevance: Select portfolio items that most closely align with the responsibilities and challenges outlined in this job description, particularly those involving process improvement, team management, and operational efficiency in logistics or customs brokerage.

📝 Enhancement Note: This preparation guide aims to equip candidates with targeted strategies for addressing common interview questions and presenting their qualifications effectively, emphasizing the critical link between their experience, portfolio, and the specific demands of this Senior Operations Manager role.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this Senior Operations Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on Workable.

• Tailor your Resume: Customize your resume to highlight specific achievements in customs brokerage, logistics, warehousing, or freight forwarding. Quantify your successes and use keywords from the job description, such as "Operations Management," "ISO Standards," "Lean Six Sigma," and "Team Leadership."

• Prepare Your Portfolio: Compile a concise portfolio showcasing 2-3 key process improvement initiatives. Focus on quantifiable results, methodologies used, and your leadership role. Ensure it’s easily shareable (PDF or presentation deck).

• Research the Industry: Familiarize yourself with the Philippine Bureau of Customs regulations, common logistics challenges in the region, and recent industry news.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to answer behavioral questions using the STAR method and be ready to articulate your strategic approach to operations management, particularly in a remote setting.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.