Import Manager - Multi Modal

WR Logistics; Huntingdon; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading freight-forwarding company in Cambridgeshire is seeking a Senior Import Manager to oversee multi-modal import operations. The successful candidate will lead a team, ensure compliance with customs regulations, and manage key client relationships. With a salary of up to £55,000 per annum, this role offers an exciting opportunity to influence operational strategies. Experience in international shipping and team management is essential.

Qualifications

• Strong knowledge of customs rules and Incoterms.
• Proven leadership and team management experience.
• Experience in vendor negotiation and contract management.

Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end import processes including booking and customs clearance.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations and trade laws.
• Act as the primary contact for key import clients.

Skills

International shipping knowledge

Team management

Vendor negotiation

Familiarity with TMS

Process improvement

Tools

Customs software

Freight ERP systems

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 leadership role involves 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

• Operational Oversight: 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.
• Customs & Regulatory Compliance: 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.
• Customer Relationship Management: 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.
• Supplier & Carrier Management: Negotiate rates with shipping lines, airlines, and trucking companies. Select optimal carriers and routes, monitor vendor performance, and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Financial & Documentation Control: Approve freight invoices, verify charges, track profitability, and ensure accurate customer billing and statutory paperwork.
• Team Leadership & Training: 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.

WR is acting as an Employment Agency in relation to this vacancy.