Manager or Sr. Manager CHA Operations & Business Development Customs

About the Role

We are an established CHA and logistics company expanding our presence in Gujarat. We are looking for an experienced customs professional who can run clearance operations and also bring in new clients for the Ahmedabad branch.

This is a senior position with real ownership: you will build the client portfolio, set up the operating team, and report directly to the General Manager.

Key Responsibilities

Business Development

• Identify, pitch, and onboard new importer clients for customs clearance and allied services
• Build relationships with manufacturers, traders, corporates, and freight forwarders across Ahmedabad and Gujarat
• Use your existing CHA network and market knowledge to grow revenue
• Prepare quotations and proposals, and work with the GM on pricing and client retention

Operations & Team Leadership

• Lead and mentor the documentation and field team for ocean import clearances through Mundra, Pipavav, and Ahmedabad ICD
• Ensure First-Time-Right Bills of Entry with minimal classification queries and amendments
• Handle customs holds, examinations, and ICEGATE query responses
• Control container dwell time to avoid demurrage, detention, and ground rent

Compliance & Allied Acts

• Oversee clearances requiring BIS, FSSAI, CDSCO, WPC, Plant/Animal Quarantine, and EPR
• Ensure accurate HS classification, CAROTAR 2020 compliance, Faceless Assessment handling, and FTA benefits

Stakeholder Management

• Liaise with Customs officials, CFS/ICD authorities, shipping lines, and clients
• Advise clients on customs procedures and Allied Acts documentation

Key Performance Indicators

• New client acquisition and revenue growth for Ahmedabad
• Turnaround time and accuracy of clearances
• Reduced dwell time and detention/demurrage costs

Qualifications & Requirements

• 5 to 7+ years in a CHA / Customs Broker firm handling ocean import clearance (experience only in freight forwarding or other non-CHA roles will not be considered)
• Hands-on exposure to Mundra / Pipavav / Ahmedabad ICD clearances
• Proven ability to generate business, or an existing client network in Gujarat
• Experience leading or building a team
• Strong working knowledge of Allied Acts, CAROTAR, HS classification, and FTAs
• Proficiency in ICEGATE, e-Sanchit, and PCS
• Graduate in any stream (Logistics, Supply Chain, or International Business preferred)
• Fluent in Hindi and Gujarati; good English

Added Advantages

• G-Card / Rule 6 / Rule 9 qualification under CBLR