Associate Director, Cross Border (GCC)

The Associate Director, Cross Border for the GCC leads regional logistics performance across cross-border freight, customs clearance, line-haul movements and third-party logistics partners. The role combines strategic network design with operational execution, financial analysis and stakeholder management. The leader is accountable for improving service reliability, cost-to-serve, visibility and scalability across Gulf markets while building dependable processes for growing trade volumes.

Key Responsibilities

• Set regional priorities for cross-border transport, customs processes, line-haul capacity and logistics partner performance.
• Review lane-level costs, service levels, shipment exceptions and financial models to identify improvement opportunities.
• Manage relationships with freight forwarders, carriers, customs brokers and other third-party logistics providers.
• Coordinate with country operations, finance, technology and commercial teams to resolve bottlenecks and improve visibility.
• Establish performance reviews, escalation routines and continuous-improvement plans across the GCC network.

Requirements and Qualifications

• Bring substantial experience in cross-border logistics, freight forwarding, customs, transport networks or 3PL management.
• Understand GCC trade and logistics flows and the operational dependencies affecting international shipments.
• Demonstrate strong data analysis, financial modelling and strategic reporting capabilities.
• Be able to influence senior stakeholders, manage partner performance and lead improvements across multiple markets.

Skills and Competencies

• Network planning, customs coordination, vendor management, financial analysis, KPI design and executive communication.
• Commercial acumen, negotiation, risk management, structured problem-solving and leadership.

Employment Details

The role requires the ability to move between strategic decisions and live operational issues, with clear accountability for actions and results. Regulatory requirements and market conditions may differ by country, so regional coordination and accurate information are vital. The exact country scope, travel requirements and reporting structure should be confirmed during recruitment.

Accurate handovers, timely escalation and complete operating records are important when several teams share responsibility for a service outcome. The role holder should keep stakeholders informed and follow actions through to closure.