The Company

John S. James Co., founded in Savannah, Georgia in 1941, has built its reputation on providing exceptional service to the international transportation community. Our commitment to professionalism, integrity, and personalized customer care has made us a leader in customs brokerage and international freight forwarding for more than 80 years. That mission continues to guide our culture today.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package for all employees, including health, dental, vision, life insurance, 401(k), and a progressive paid time-off program.

Role

The Office Manager is responsible for leading the daily operations of the Atlanta office, ensuring the team has the resources, guidance, and structure needed to deliver accurate, timely, and compliant services. This role requires strong leadership, deep knowledge of customs brokerage regulations, and the ability to support staff development while maintaining operational excellence.

This is a full-time, on-site position.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day office operations and ensure staff have the tools, training, and support needed to perform their duties effectively.
• Identify and leverage the strengths and abilities of each team member to benefit the company and support professional growth.
• Interpret, apply, and communicate Customs and related regulatory requirements to maintain full compliance with government agencies (including FMC and CHB licensing requirements).
• Review and validate documentation with strong attention to detail, resolving discrepancies and ensuring accuracy before submission.
• Calculate rates, conversions, and related charges accurately.
• Maintain clear, professional communication with clients using proper business grammar and concise messaging.
• Coordinate staff training to maximize productivity and service quality.
• Ensure all customers receive professional, timely, and helpful service.
• Participate in or stay informed about meetings related to customer accounts and ensure relevant team members are included or briefed.
• Serve as an organizational hub between managers to promote coordination, cooperation, and strong cross-departmental communication.
• Stay current with industry regulations and trends; update staff as necessary.
• Represent John S. James Co. at Broker’s Association events and other industry-related meetings.
• Oversee purchasing and inventory of office supplies, equipment, and maintenance needs while monitoring related expenses.
• Work closely with peers, maintaining open communication regarding operational updates and office events.
• Travel as needed for customer visits, potential accounts, training sessions, seminars, or coordination with other offices.
• Review, approve, and support the quality and professionalism of all correspondence sent to clients.
• Oversee collections and ensure accounts receivable remain within acceptable company thresholds.
• Enforce company policies related to receivables, advances, and collections.
• Review accounts payable and address discrepancies as needed.
• Review the liquidation report weekly or ensure the Import Manager has completed this review.
• Assist Department Managers with personnel issues and participate in hiring, interviews, evaluations, and counseling sessions.
• Maintain thorough knowledge of company policies and employee benefits.
• Oversee the office’s employee evaluation process and ensure compliance with policies related to hiring, counseling, and termination.
• Review office P&Ls and monitor staffing salary levels to support fairness and nondiscrimination.
• Collaborate with the Sales team to expand customer accounts and support office growth.
• Maintain regular and dependable on-site attendance as an essential requirement of the role.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional education preferred.
• Licensed Customs Broker required.
• Proven management experience with demonstrated leadership skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and decision-making skills.
• Proficiency with computer systems, including MS Office and industry-specific applications.
• Ability to interpret regulations and apply them accurately in daily operations.
• Strong ethical judgment and understanding of how operational decisions impact the company.