Head of Imports

Mediterranean Shipping Company; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A global shipping and logistics leader is looking for a Head of Imports in Ipswich. This full-time role involves developing import strategies, managing various stakeholder relationships, and leading the import team. Key responsibilities include optimizing logistics, ensuring compliance with trade laws, and representing the company internationally. With a focus on teamwork and strategic alignment, this position requires strong leadership skills and offers a competitive salary along with substantial benefits.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Private Health & Dental (Family Cover)

Company Car (with Fuel)

Generous pension scheme

Life Assurance

25 days annual leave

On-site artisan restaurant

Discounted gym membership

Flu vaccines and eye care vouchers

Learning and development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven experience in senior logistics and commercial leadership roles.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills across all levels.
• Ability to thrive under pressure and prioritize tasks effectively.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement import strategies for MSC UK’s objectives.
• Manage stakeholder relationships and build strong partnerships.
• Lead and manage the import team, driving engagement and productivity.

Skills

Senior logistics and commercial leadership

Global import regulations expertise

Stakeholder management

End-to-end import operations management

Analytical and data-driven decision-making

Risk management in supply chains

Job description

Head of Imports

Full time, permanent

As the Head of Imports, you will play a pivotal role in leading and driving MSC UK’s Import Trade function and help improve customer experience. A key part of this role will be to contribute and lead the UK Agency strategy including TEU growth, revenue, optimisation of vessels and intermodal. Working closely with the Geneva liner department is key to align strategies and best in class products and services for the UK Agency. This role will be in the Head Office in Ipswich and requires extensive domestic and international travel.

How you will help us and what you can expect

In this role, you will be responsible for

• Develop and implement import strategies to achieve MSC UK’s objectives and financial targets
• Manage stakeholder relationships by building strong partnerships and working closely with the UK Board to align strategic priorities, influence key decisions, and ensure the successful delivery of business objectives
• Exhibit effective leadership by providing strategic direction, driving high‑performance standards, and ensuring teams remain aligned with organisational objectives and governance requirements
• Drive performance and revenue results across all import trades and pushing results in intermodal
• Build strong relationship with MSC liners
• Collaboration with all MSC agencies globally
• Maintain strong relationships with domestic and international trade partners, including VIP accounts and developing relationships with key suppliers and commercial port relationships
• Lead and manage the import team, driving engagement, productivity, and people initiatives
• Set and manage budgets in alignment with senior stakeholders and MSC Liners
• Establish and enforce policies and procedures for trade compliance
• Monitor adherence to international trade laws, customs regulations, and company policies
• Provide training and support to team members on compliance and operational best practices
• Optimize logistics and shipping strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs whilst maximising the asset
• Represent MSC UK internationally by attending MSC Geneva agency meetings and overseas visits to strengthen collaboration and brand presence
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Trade, Sales, Customer Service, Operations, HR, IT, and Finance teams to deliver integrated business solutions
• Facilitate senior management meetings to review KPIs and align actions with company strategy
• Represent the function in monthly senior executive forums and lead cross-departmental projects
• Conduct market analysis to inform strategy and maintain awareness of industry trends and competitor activity
• Perform risk assessments and develop contingency plans for trade disruptions
• Advance MSC’s market-leading position by promoting and evolving its value proposition

Skills and experience you’ll bring to us

• Proven experience in senior logistics and commercial leadership roles
• Expertise in global import regulations, compliance, and international trade laws
• Strategic planning and delivery of customer service evolution
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills across all levels
• End-to-end import operations management, including documentation and Incoterms
• Supplier and vendor relationship management with effective negotiation skills
• Ability to thrive under pressure and prioritise tasks effectively
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams and global stakeholders to achieve shared objectives
• Visionary approach with strong analytical and data-driven decision-making
• Commercial awareness and cost optimization within import functions
• Leadership and team development in fast-paced environments
• Risk management and problem-solving in complex supply chains
• Excellent presentation and influencing skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary
• Private Health & Dental (Family Cover)
• Company Car (with Fuel)
• Generous pension scheme
• Life Assurance
• 25 days rising to 27 + a day to take on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve
• Free parking
• On-site artisan restaurant
• Discounted gym membership
• Cycle to work scheme
• Flu vaccines and eye care vouchers
• Buy or sell holiday scheme
• Christmas club saving
• MSC Cruises friends and family discount
• Full induction day and training provided
• Learning and development opportunities
• Dress for the day policy/modern office environment