Manager - Import & Export

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and hands-on Manager - Import & Export to oversee and manage the Company's daily import and export operations. The role is responsible for ensuring smooth documentation processes, customs clearance, port operations coordination, shipping arrangements, regulatory compliance, and timely movement of materials and finished goods. The successful candidate will work closely with customs authorities, port operators, shipping agencies, freight forwarders, and internal stakeholders to ensure efficient logistics operations.

Key Responsibilities

Import & Export Operations Management

• Manages and supervises daily import and export activities to ensures smooth and timely shipment execution.
• Coordinates inbound and outbound shipments with freight forwarders, transporters, shipping lines, and internal departments.
• Monitors shipment schedules and ensures cargo movements meet operational requirements and delivery timelines.
• Resolves operational issues relating to shipment delays, cargo discrepancies, shipping documentation, and customs clearance.
• Monitors logistics service performance and recommend operational improvements.

Documentation Operations

• Oversees the preparations, verifications, and submissions of import and export documentation.
• Ensures accuracy and completeness of various shipping documents.
• Maintains proper documentation records and ensures compliance with internal and regulatory requirements.
• Prepares and submits logistics and customs-related reports as required by management and authorities.

Customs Compliance & Regulatory Management

• Ensures compliance with customs regulations, trade requirements, permits, licenses, and statutory obligations.
• Manages customs declarations, duty assessments, tariff classifications, SST calculations, and tax exemption applications.
• Liaises directly with customs authorities on import/export matters and resolve customs-related issues.
• Monitors regulatory updates affecting import and export activities and ensure operational compliance.
• Supports customs audits, investigations, and documentation reviews when required.

Port Operations & Shipping Coordination

• Coordinates closely with port authorities, terminal operators, shipping agencies, vessel operators, and freight forwarders.
• Monitors vessel schedules, cargo loading and discharge activities, and container movements.
• Ensures efficient execution of port-related operations, including cargo receiving, handling, storage, and shipment release.
• Coordinates with shipping agents on vessel bookings, container availability, shipping schedules, and cargo documentation.
• Addresses operational issues involving port congestion, terminal delays, vessel schedule changes, and cargo handling activities.

Stakeholder Management

• Maintains effective working relationships with:

  • Customs Authorities
  • Port Authorities
  • Shipping Agencies
  • Freight Forwarders
  • Transport Service Providers
  • Government Regulatory Agencies

• Coordinates and follow up on customs clearance, permit applications, shipment status, and cargo release activities.

• Supports service performance reviews and operational meetings with external logistics partners.

Team Management

• Leads and supervises import and export executives, coordinators, and operational staff.
• Allocates work assignments and monitor team performance to ensures operational objectives are achieved.
• Provides coaching, training, and guidance on customs procedures, documentation requirements, and operational processes.
• Ensures compliance with departmental procedures, policies, and work standards.

Process Improvement & Compliance

• Implements and maintains import/export procedures and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Identifies opportunities to improves documentation accuracy, customs clearance efficiency, and logistics processes.
• Supports internal control requirements and ensures compliance with company policies.
• Monitors operational KPIs and implements corrective actions when required.

Requirements

Qualifications

• Bachelor's Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Business Administration, or a related discipline.
• Professional certification in Logistics, Customs, International Trade, or Supply Chain Management will be an added advantage.

Experience

• Minimum 8-10 years of experience in import/export, shipping, customs, logistics, or supply chain operations.

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in a managerial or supervisory role.

• Strong knowledge of:

  • Customs regulations and procedures
  • Import/export documentation
  • SST and duty assessment
  • Tariff classification
  • Customs declaration processes
  • International freight and shipping operations

• Experience in manufacturing, industrial, trading, or export-oriented environments is preferred.

• Good understanding of:

  • Port operations
  • Cargo handling procedures
  • Vessel scheduling
  • Terminal operations
  • Customs clearance processes
  • Shipping agency coordination

• Experience liaising directly with customs authorities, port authorities, shipping agents, terminal operators, and freight forwarders is highly advantageous.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong knowledge of import/export documentation and customs compliance.
• Good understanding of port and shipping operations.
• Strong coordination and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and logistics-related systems.
• Ability to work under pressure and manage multiple shipment activities simultaneously.