Import Manager – Multi Modal

White Recruitment Construction; Huntingdon; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading logistics company is seeking a Senior Import Manager to oversee multi-modal import operations in Huntingdon. This role involves managing import processes, ensuring compliance with regulations, and supervising a skilled team. The ideal candidate will have strong leadership skills and experience in international shipping. The position offers a competitive salary up to £55,000 per annum and opportunities for professional development.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of customs rules, Incoterms, and multi-modal transport.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Experience driving operational efficiency and process improvement initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end import processes including booking and customs clearance.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations and resolve issues.
• Negotiate rates and select optimal carriers for shipments.
• Supervise import coordinators and customs brokers.

Skills

International shipping knowledge

Leadership experience

Vendor negotiation

Familiarity with TMS

Operational efficiency

Job description

Job Title: Senior Import Manager – Multi-Modal
Location: Cambridgeshire
Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum
Type: Full-time

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced and proactive Multi Modal Import Manager to join our growing freight-forwarding team. This is a leadership role with responsibility for managing all aspects of import operations across multiple modes, including air, sea, and road. The ideal candidate will combine operational expertise, customer service excellence, compliance knowledge, and strong team management skills.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end import processes including booking, customs clearance, transportation, warehousing, and final delivery. Coordinate with global offices, overseas agents, carriers, and port authorities to ensure smooth operations.
• Ensure full compliance with customs regulations, trade laws, and government requirements. Oversee accurate documentation (BL, COO, invoices, packing lists, HS codes) and resolve customs queries or inspections.
• Act as the primary point of contact for key import clients, providing updates, resolving issues, and advising on trade regulations, routing, and cost-effective solutions.
• Negotiate rates with shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies. Select optimal carriers and routes, monitor vendor performance, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Approve freight invoices, verify charges, track profitability, and ensure accurate customer billing and statutory paperwork.
• Supervise import coordinators, documentation staff, and customs brokers. Train the team in procedures, compliance, and systems, while allocating tasks and monitoring performance.

Skills & Experience Required

• Strong knowledge of international shipping, customs rules, Incoterms, and multi-modal transport.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Vendor negotiation and contract management expertise.
• Familiarity with TMS, customs software, and freight ERP systems.
• Experience driving operational efficiency and process improvement initiatives.

Why Join Us?

This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of a key part of our global logistics operations. You’ll lead a skilled team, influence operational strategies, and play a central role in delivering exceptional service to our clients. Salary is up to £55,000 per annum, reflecting the seniority and responsibility of the role.