Operations & Trade Accounts Manager

The Operations & Trade Accounts Manager serves as the operational backbone of the business, taking complete ownership over financial costing systems, container shipping logistics, 3PL warehouse performance, international supplier coordination, and end-to-end trade account management. In this high-ownership, hands-on role, you will build and manage critical operational systems from scratch, ensuring high-margin profitability, precise inventory tracking, and exceptional customer service while executive leadership focuses on client acquisition and business development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Pricing & Commercial Systems: Build, refine, and manage landed cost models, gross margin tracking, and automated trade pricing frameworks incorporating freight, duty, insurance, customs, and 3PL costs. Maintain accurate product details, custom upholstery options, and tiered pricing structures on the B2B web platform.
• Logistics & Inventory Control: Oversee end-to-end shipping operations, container tracking, and ETA schedules. Manage the primary 3PL partnership across receiving, warehousing, dispatch, and nationwide freight, while continuously optimizing stock replenishment and operating costs.
• Supplier & Purchase Order Management: Coordinate purchase orders with overseas manufacturing partners, tracking production schedules, deposits, invoices, and shipment commitments. Manage supplier communication regarding custom specs, quality control, and product adjustments.
• Trade Accounts & Customer Journey: Drive the entire trade account lifecycle—from initial inquiry and custom quoting to order processing, invoicing, fulfillment, and post-delivery support. Serve as the primary operational contact for trade clients and interior designers regarding stock availability, order updates, and delivery resolution.
• Operations & Reporting: Establish and document scalable operational workflows and provide executive leadership with clear visibility into sales metrics, gross margins, stock levels, open orders, and operating expenses.

Requirements

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Proven ability to build, manage, and analyze complex pricing models, landed cost spreadsheets, gross margin calculations, and commercial discount structures.
• High level of attention to detail across inventory records, customer accounts, and order administration.
• Excellent written and verbal English communication skills, with confidence conducting business across international suppliers, logistics providers, and corporate clients.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple operational workflows independently during New Zealand business hours.

PREFERRED:

• Experience using Xero accounting software.
• Direct background in the furniture, homewares, interior design, or wholesale trade sectors.
• Hands-on experience in container import logistics, international freight forwarding, and 3PL warehouse operations.
• Prior exposure to inventory management tools, CRM software, purchase order workflows, or trade e-commerce portals.