Import Operations Management 

• Lead and supervise daily import operations to ensure shipments are processed accurately and delivered on time.  

• Monitor shipment status from origin to final destination and proactively resolve operational issues. 

• Manage escalations related to shipment delays, damages, missing documents, or customs clearance issues. 

• Develop and implement import strategies to improve operational efficiency. 

Documentation Management 

• Oversee and directly handle preparation, verification, and processing of import documentation 

• Ensure accuracy and completeness of documents before customs clearance. 

• Maintain proper records and document control procedures. 

Customs Compliance & Regulatory Control 

• Ensure full compliance with customs regulations, import laws, trade policies, and company procedures. 

• Review customs declarations, import permits, HS classifications, duty calculations, and related documentation. 

• Maintain close communication with customs authorities and government agencies when required, particularly during customs valuation and price consultation processes. 

• Monitor regulatory changes and implement necessary operational updates. 

Vendor & Stakeholder Management 

• Manage relationships with freight forwarders, shipping lines, customs brokers, and transportation providers. 

• Monitor service performance and ensure compliance with agreed service levels (SLAs). 

• Evaluate logistics service providers and support tendering, carrier selection, and rate negotiation activities in collaboration with HQ and Regional teams. 

• Resolve escalated issues with external vendors and internal stakeholders. 

Risk Management & Claims Control 

• Manage cargo claims related to shortages, damages, or transportation incidents. 

• Identify operational risks and implement preventive actions to minimize disruptions. 

• Ensure proper corrective and preventive actions (CAPA) are implemented for recurring issues. 

Master Data & System Management 

• Maintain the accuracy and integrity of SAP master data, including materials, SKUs, vendors, brands, and logistics-related parameters. 

• Support system enhancement, data governance, and process digitization initiatives. 

Cost Control & Financial Administration   

• Monitor import-related costs including freight, duties, taxes, demurrage, detention, and brokerage charges. 

• Prepare and manage annual budgets for import-related expenses and cargo insurance. 

• Verify payment transactions and ensure accuracy of import costs. 

• Identify cost-saving opportunities while maintaining service quality and compliance. 

• Drive logistics cost optimization initiatives. 

Performance Monitoring & Reporting 

• Track KPIs related to: 

• On-time shipment arrival 

• Customs clearance performance 

• Documentation accuracy 

• Logistics costs 

• Prepare operational and management reports. 

• Analyse trends and implement corrective actions to improve service quality and efficiency. 

Process Improvement 

• Identify operational bottlenecks and implement process improvements. 

• Standardize import procedures and workflows. 

• Support automation and digitalization projects within import operations. 

• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to increase efficiency and reduce cycle times. 

Team Management 

• Allocate workloads and monitor task completion to ensure operational efficiency. 

• Conduct performance reviews and monitor team productivity. 

Cross-functional Coordination & Support 

• Provide support to various brands and efficiently handle cross-functional requests. 

• Perform additional logistics tasks as assigned by Head of SCM.