APAC Logistics Specialist

HARTING stands for strong connections – across the globe. As one of the leading international suppliers of industrial connectivity, we are connecting customers to their digital future. And as an employer? We connect around 6,000 people at our headquarter in Espelkamp and at locations worldwide. Here you’ll find great colleagues, as well as ever new opportunities and innovations revolving around IoT and artificial intelligence. In everything we do, we remain true to our roots: as a regionally connected family business that always stays firmly grounded in spite of our stellar high-tech. Here’s to your unique future with us: Yours!

Job Description The APAC Logistics Specialist is responsible for managing and optimizing end-to-end logistics operations across the Asia-Pacific region. Based in Singapore, this role serves as the central coordination point for freight, customs, warehousing, and third-party logistics (3PL) partnerships. The Specialist ensures that goods move efficiently, compliantly, and cost-effectively across the APAC supply chain network, while driving digitalization, process standardization, and continuous improvement initiatives aligned with global standards.

Job Responsibilities Report to Head of Regional Logistics - APAC, the incumbent will handle the following duties:

• Freight & Transportation Management:

• Manage inbound and outbound shipments across air, sea, and road freight for the APAC region

• Coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery

• Monitor shipment milestones and proactively resolve delays or disruptions

• Negotiate freight rates and service agreements with logistics service providers

• Drive the digitalization of freight booking and tracking processes through TMS platforms and digital freight management tools, ensuring real-time shipment visibility across the APAC network.

• Warehouse & Inventory Operations:

• Oversee inventory accuracy across APAC distribution centers and warehouses

• Coordinate with 3PL partners on stock replenishment, pick-and-pack operations, and returns management

• Support cycle count and annual stock-take processes

• Ensure proper handling and storage of goods in compliance with safety and regulatory standards.

• Customs & Trade Compliance:

• Ensure all import/export activities comply with local and international trade regulations across APAC jurisdictions (Singapore, China, Japan, Australia, India, Southeast Asia, etc.)

• Manage customs documentation including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and HS code classifications

• Manage Singapore TradeNet permit applications (IN/OUT/Transhipment permits) and liaise directly with Singapore Customs on shipment discrepancies, queries, and regulatory updates

• Support Free Trade Agreement (FTA) utilization and preferential tariff applications

• Liaise with customs authorities and trade compliance teams across APAC markets

• Invoice Validation & Freight Billing:

• Validate and audit all freight invoices against contracted rates, agreed SLAs, and shipment records

• Identify, investigate, and resolve billing discrepancies with freight forwarders, carriers, and 3PL providers in a timely manner

• Maintain accurate billing records and support finance teams with accruals, cost allocation, and freight spend reporting

• Monitor freight cost trends and flag anomalies for management review.

• Data, Reporting & Analytics:

• Track and report key logistics KPIs: on-time delivery, freight cost per unit, lead times, fill rates, and visibility accuracy

• Maintain accurate logistics data in ERP and TMS systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, CargoWise)

• Prepare regular performance dashboards and regional logistics reports for management review

• Identify cost-saving opportunities through data analysis and benchmarking

• Process Improvement, Automation & Standardization:

• Support and lead automation initiatives across APAC logistics workflows, including freight booking, shipment tracking, and reporting processes

• Drive process standardization by developing, documenting, and enforcing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) consistently across all APAC markets and logistics partners

• Identify inefficiencies in logistics operations and lead continuous improvement initiatives

• Participate in cross-functional projects including network optimization, system implementation, and digitization programs

• Stakeholder, Vendor & Customer Management:

• Act as the primary point of contact for APAC logistics service providers and 3PL partners

• Conduct regular business reviews with key vendors to assess performance against SLAs

• Coordinate APAC customer and account onboarding activities, including logistics SOP setup, system configuration, and go-live execution in collaboration with internal teams and logistics partners

• Ensure seamless handover from onboarding to steady-state operations, maintaining service continuity and customer satisfaction

• Collaborate closely with procurement, sales, customer service, and finance teams to align logistics activities with business objectives

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field. Extensive and demonstrated expertise may substitute for the required degree
• 4–6 years of logistics/supply chain experience, with at least 2 years in a regional APAC role.
• Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP WM/EWM required); hands-on experience with TMS/WMS platforms, digital freight tools, or logistics automation tools (e.g., Power BI, RPA, or similar data visualisation and process automation solutions).
• Strong working knowledge of Singapore TradeNet, Singapore Customs procedures, and APAC import/export regulations.
• Proficiency in English and Mandarin (written and spoken) is required, as the role involves daily coordination with freight forwarders, customs brokers, 3PL partners, and internal stakeholders across English and Mandarin-speaking markets in the APAC region. Proficiency in additional regional languages (e.g., Japanese or Korean) is an advantage for supporting broader regional coverage.
• Detail-oriented, analytical, with business acumen.
• Demonstrated ability to operate effectively in dynamic and evolving business environments, with a hands-on and adaptable approach when required.
• Willingness to travel within the Asia Pacific region.

Benefits: Social Insurance coverage (APAC), Staff insurance coverage (APAC)