Export and Import Specialist

Export and Import Specialist, Illertissen

Company Description

Louis Dreyfus Company is a leading merchant and processor of agricultural goods and plant-based ingredients. Our activities span the entire value chain from farm to fork, across a broad range of business lines. We leverage our global reach and extensive asset network to serve our customers and consumers worldwide.

Structured as a matrix organization of six geographical regions and ten platforms, Louis Dreyfus Company is active in over 100 countries and employs approximately 18,000 people globally.

In December 2024, Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) signed a binding agreement to purchase BASF’s Food and Health Performance Ingredients business, including the Illertissen production site in Germany, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. This transition offers new opportunities for the Illertissen site under LDC's stewardship.

The Illertissen facility continues its legacy of innovation in food and health ingredients, driving advancements and delivering high-quality products to meet evolving consumer demands and support LDC's growth strategies. The dedicated team of approximately 280 employees is expected to join LDC and remains committed to delivering high-quality products, ensuring a promising future for the site.

Main Responsibilities:

Your main missions will be to:

Export & Import Operations:

• Oversee end-to-end import and export operations, ensuring timely and cost-effective deliveries
• Handle customs procedures, import/export licenses, regulatory compliance, and clearance
• Manage tariffication of products
• Work closely with freight forwarders, customs brokers, transport providers, and regulatory agencies to ensure efficient shipment management
• Ensure compliance with international trade laws, Incoterms, and food industry-specific regulations

Documentation Management:

• Create, manage, and maintain all necessary trade-related documentation, including customs declarations, certificates of origin, health and sanitary certificates, import/export permits and licenses, shipping and transport documents (e.g., Bill of Lading, Packing Lists, Commercial Invoices, etc.)
• Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and compliant with country-specific trade regulations
• Work closely with regulatory and quality teams to secure necessary certifications for different markets

Logistics & Supply Chain Coordination:

• Coordinate with transport providers and warehouses to optimize shipping routes and freight costs
• Track and monitor shipments, proactively managing potential delays, risks, and disruptions
• Collaborate with internal teams to ensure proper stock management and distribution planning
• Support the integration of digital tools and ERP systems to streamline document and logistics processes

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management:

• Ensure full compliance with EU, US FDA, and APAC food import/export regulations
• Stay updated on tariffs, sanctions, customs rules, and regulatory changes impacting global trade
• Implement risk mitigation strategies to prevent compliance or logistical issues

Cost Management & Process Optimization:

• Negotiate rates with carriers, shipping lines, and customs brokers to reduce costs
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize logistics workflows
• Develop and maintain best practices for trade compliance and document handling

Experience & Skills:

Required experience and technical skills:

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Logistics, or a related field
• At least 5 years of experience in export/import operations, preferably in the food ingredients or FMCG sector
• Experience with ERP and logistics management systems
• Strong expertise in customs documentation, Incoterms, and international trade compliance

Languages:

• Fluency in English is required
• Additional languages are a plus

Soft skills:

• Detail-oriented with strong organizational skills for managing critical documentation
• Excellent negotiation, problem-solving, and communication skills

Additional Information:

What We Offer

We provide a dynamic and stimulating international environment that will develop your abilities and skills, with outstanding career opportunities within one of the largest private companies globally.

Our Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits
• Hybrid work options (not applicable to all roles)
• Pension contributions
• Access to training and development programs

Sustainability & Inclusion:

Sustainable value creation is central to our purpose. We are committed to creating fair and sustainable value for our people, partners, communities, and the environment.

LDC values diversity, equity, and inclusion, and encourages applications from people of all backgrounds. We support local communities and environmental initiatives, fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace.