Manager, Import Control Tower

DSV Road GmbH; Kent (WA); On-site; USD 99,000 - 124,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

401(k)

Paid time off

Job summary

DSV is seeking a Manager, Import Control Tower to oversee import ocean and air operations, coordinating booking, customs clearance, and shipment tracking while leading a team.

You will use TMS/WMS, drive process improvements, monitor KPIs, and ensure compliance, reporting to the division in the US. This full-time on-site role offers a competitive base salary and benefits.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in air and ocean import operations and transportation logistics, with at least 2-3 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Experience in managing a control tower or similar function is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of air and ocean import procedures, regulations, and documentation requirements.
• Proficiency in using transportation management systems (TMS) and other logistics software.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee all aspects of import operations, including booking, documentation, customs clearance, and shipment tracking.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of import shipments in compliance with regulations and customer requirements.
• Manage the control tower function to monitor and control transportation logistics activities in real-time.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to proactively address issues and optimize transportation flows.
• Lead and motivate a team of import specialists and control tower operators to achieve operational goals and objectives.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and support to team members to enhance performance and productivity.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and optimization in import operations and control tower activities.
• Implement best practices and streamline workflows to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients regarding import shipments and transportation logistics.
• Communicate proactively with clients to provide updates on shipment status, resolve issues, and address inquiries.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics related to import operations and control tower activities.
• Analyse data to identify trends, track performance against targets, and implement corrective actions as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Analytical mindset

Communication

English fluency

Education

Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, or related field

5-7 years in air/ocean import operations

2-3 years in managerial role

Tools

TMS

WMS

Job description

Job area: Managerial

DSV – Global Transport and Logistics

At DSV, our purpose is to keep customers’ supply chains flowing and enable the business of our customers by ensuring reliable and efficient transport and logistics services through storage and transport of goods by air, sea and road. Our vision is to create long-term, sustainable growth and value for our customers, employees, shareholders and society.

Close to 150,000 employees in over 90 countries work diligently to deliver great customer experiences and high-quality services.

As a global leader, our commitment to sustainable business practices is a central element of our overall business strategy.

Division:Air & Sea US
Job Posting Title: Manager, Import Control Tower - 126217
Time Type: Full Time

Summary

This role will oversee the coordination of import ocean and air import operations and manage the control tower function to ensure efficient and seamless transportation logistics. Leveraging your expertise in import operations and supply chain management, you will optimize processes, monitor shipments, and lead a team to deliver exceptional service to our clients.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Coordinate and oversee all aspects of import operations, including booking, documentation, customs clearance, and shipment tracking.
• Ensure timely and accurate processing of import shipments in compliance with regulations and customer requirements.
• Manage the control tower function to monitor and control transportation logistics activities in real-time.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to proactively address issues and optimize transportation flows.
• Lead and motivate a team of import specialists and control tower operators to achieve operational goals and objectives.
• Provide guidance, coaching, and support to team members to enhance performance and productivity.
• Identify opportunities for process improvement and optimization in import operations and control tower activities.
• Implement best practices and streamline workflows to enhance efficiency and customer satisfaction.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients regarding import shipments and transportation logistics.
• Communicate proactively with clients to provide updates on shipment status, resolve issues, and address inquiries.
• Monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics related to import operations and control tower activities.
• Analyse data to identify trends, track performance against targets, and implement corrective actions as needed.

Educational background / Work experience

• [preferred]Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
• Minimum of 5-7 years of experience in air and ocean import operations and transportation logistics, with at least 2-3 years in a managerial or supervisory role.
• Experience in managing a control tower or similar function is highly desirable.
• Strong understanding of air and ocean import procedures, regulations, and documentation requirements.
• Proficiency in using transportation management systems (TMS) and other logistics software.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire a diverse team.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to interact professionally with clients, suppliers, and internal stakeholders.
• Analytical mindset with the ability to analyse data, identify trends, and make data-driven decisions.

Function / Market & Industry Knowledge / Business Acumen / Processes

Supervisory Responsibilities (if any)

• Directly supervise and manage a team of import specialists and control tower operators
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to team members to ensure alignment with organizational goals and objectives.

Preferred Qualifications

• Certification in logistics, supply chain management, or relevant professional certifications (e.g., Certified Supply Chain Professional, Six Sigma) is a plus.
• Experience with lean manufacturing principles and continuous improvement methodologies.
• Fluent in English (oral and written)

Computer Literacy

• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Familiarity with transportation management systems (TMS), warehouse management systems (WMS), and other logistics software.

At Will Employment

DSV Air & Sea Inc. employees are hired for an undefined period of time as “at will” employees. This means that an employee may be terminated for any reason, or no reason at all, at any time, provided the discharge does not violate any law*. Additionally, each employee has the right to terminate his/her employment at any time. *Except if employed in Montana, where termination requires just cause.

For this position, the expected base pay range is $99,072.00 - $123,840.00 annually. Actual compensation will be determined based on job-related factors, including relevant experience, skills, education or certifications, and geographic location, consistent with applicable laws and company policy.

DSV offers a comprehensive benefits program designed to support the health and well-being of employees and their families. Benefits include medical, prescription, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as flexible spending accounts (FSAs), health savings accounts (HSAs) (for eligible plans), and short- and long‑term disability coverage.

Employees also have access to wellness resources, Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services, and other support benefits. Financial benefits include participation in the DSV 401(k) plan, which provides company matching contributions of up to 5%.

To support work‑life balance, DSV offers various paid time off programs and paid company holidays. Specific PTO and leave programs may vary by location and division in accordance with state or local laws.

DSV is an equal employment opportunity employer. Candidates are considered for employment without regard to race, creed, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, ancestry, disability, veteran status, marital status, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state or local law. If you require special assistance or accommodation while seeking employment with DSV, please contact Human Resources at [e-mail] . If you are interested in learning the status of your application, please note you will be contacted directly by the appropriate human resources contact person if you are selected for further consideration. DSV reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.

DSV – Global transport and logistics

Working at DSV means playing in a different league.

As a global leader in transport and logistics, we have been on an extraordinary journey of growth. Let’s grow together as we continue to innovate, digitalise and build on our achievements.

With close to 150,000 colleagues in over 90 countries, we work every day to offer solid services and meet our customers’ needs and help them achieve their goals. We know that the best way to achieve this is by bringing in new talent, fresh perspectives and ambitious individuals like you.

At DSV, performance is in our DNA. We don’t just work – we aim to shape the future of logistics. This ambition fuels a dynamic environment built on collaboration with world‑class team players, accountability and action. We value inclusivity, embrace different cultures and respect the dignity and rights of every individual. If you want to make an impact, be trusted by customers and grow your career in a forward‑thinking company – this is the place to be.

Nearest Major Market: Seattle
Nearest Secondary Market: Bellevue