Customs Manager

Red Ember Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 350,000 - 700,000; Full time

Job summary

Red Ember Recruitment in Johannesburg is seeking an experienced Customs Manager to lead national customs operations within a dynamic logistics and international trade environment. You will ensure compliance with SARS Customs and Excise legislation, manage import and export activities, and drive cross‑border efficiency.

The role demands strategic leadership, hands‑on expertise in tariff classification, rebates, and stakeholder management, plus the ability to mentor staff and deliver accurate

Qualifications

• Experience in import/export operations and customs clearance.
• Strong knowledge of SARS Customs and Excise legislation.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Oversee national customs deferments and reconciliations.
• Forecast duties, VAT liabilities, and refunds.
• Prepare monthly customs financial reporting.
• Lead SARS interactions, audits, and compliance processes.
• Drive process improvements and client advisory on tariffs.

Skills

Matric (Grade 12)

Customs compliance

Documentation & records

Stakeholder management

Education

Grade 12 (Matric)

Logistics/Supply Chain/International Trade qualification

Tools

MS Office

Job description

Explore customs manager positions in Johannesburg , where international trade and logistics converge. These roles involve overseeing the import and export of goods, compliance with customs regulations, and efficient supply chain management . Customs managers ensure smooth clearance processes, minimize risks associated with trade, and optimize duty payments. They work closely with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and government agencies to facilitate seamless cross-border transactions.
Job opportunities for customs managers in Johannesburg span various industries, including manufacturing, retail, logistics , and transportation. These professionals handle documentation, classification, valuation, and verification of goods to adhere to local and international laws. They also develop and implement strategies to improve customs compliance , reduce costs, and enhance operational efficiency. Strong analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills are crucial for success in this field.
Johannesburg 's strategic location as a major economic hub in South Africa makes it a prime location for customs management careers. Professionals in this field can find roles in both multinational corporations and local businesses, contributing to the growth and competitiveness of the region's trade sector. Customs manager jobs offer opportunities for career advancement and professional development in a dynamic and globalized environment.

Customs managers oversee import and export operations , ensure compliance with customs regulations, and manage documentation. They also handle tariff classifications, duty payments, and risk assessments . They work to optimize supply chain efficiency and minimize trade-related costs.

The average salary for a customs manager in Johannesburg ranges from ZAR 350,000 to ZAR 700,000 per year. This range varies based on experience, qualifications, and the size of the company. Senior-level positions or those in larger organizations may offer higher compensation.

Important skills include knowledge of customs regulations, strong analytical abilities, and excellent communication skills. Problem-solving, attention to detail, and proficiency in logistics software are valuable. Leadership and team management skills are beneficial for overseeing customs operations.

Showing 116 Customs Manager jobs in Johannesburg

Customs Manager

We are seeking an experienced Customs Manager to lead and manage national Customs operations within a dynamic logistics and international trade environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for ensuring compliance with SARS Customs and Excise legislation, managing import and export operations, overseeing cross-border and transit activities, and driving operational excellence across the Customs function. This role combines strategic leadership with hands‑on Customs expertise and requires a strong understanding of Customs compliance, tariff classification, rebates, refunds, and stakeholder management.

Responsibilities: National Deferment and Financial Governance:Manage all national Customs deferments and reconciliations.Forecast duties, VAT liabilities, and refund recoveries.Prepare monthly Customs financial reporting and variance commentary.Refunds, Adjustments and Rebate/Permit Governance: Oversee duty refund and provisional‑payment applications.Ensure timely liquidations and SARS submissions.Own governance of permits, rebates, and bond‑store operations, including:Monthly reconciliationsTracking and renewal of expiry datesCompliance reportingSupporting clients in establishing rebate/bond facilitiesSARS Operational Interaction and Compliance: Attend to SARS stops, inspections, verifications, and documentary reviews.Drive rapid query resolution to minimize penalties and delays.Lead SARS post‑clearance audits, verifications, and AEO compliance requirements.Operational Continuity and Hands‑On Support: Perform full import, export, cross‑border road freight, and transit clearances when required (tariffing, EDI processing, refunds, bonding, RIT/RIB, etc.).Provide operational cover during staff absence, peak periods, or emergencies.Support Unitrans divisions with all Customs requirements.RIT/RIB, Transit and Cross‑Border Compliance: Ensure timely acquittal of all RIT/RIB movements.Oversee compliance with SARS bonding regulations and SADC/COMESA transit requirements.Monitor and govern all cross‑border road freight documentation and compliance.Tariff Library and Technical Advisory: Maintain an updated tariff classification library.Provide advanced tariff, Incoterms, regulatory and trade documentation guidance.Track and implement tariff amendments, rebate updates, and regulatory changes.Systems, Digital Workflow and Process Management: Ensure accuracy and turnaround of all ShipShape entries.Drive workflow automation, digital optimization, and integration with BI dashboards and client systems.Identify efficiency improvements and standardize national Customs processes.Advanced Client Advisory: Conduct client reviews on tariff rulings, rebates, refunds, and regulatory impacts.Support tender inputs and new business proposals with customs expertise.Guide clients on AEO readiness and cross‑border compliance.Leadership, Performance and Talent Management: Supervise, mentor, and appraise customs staff performance.Manage KPIs and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.Support succession planning and identify high‑potential internal talent.Training and Development: Facilitate SARS, Incoterms, and industry updates.Promote continuous technical development and compliance awareness across branches.Stakeholder Interface: The role actively engages with:SARS Customs and Excise (operational, audit, and compliance teams)Regulatory bodies (ITAC, NRCS, SADC/COMESA)Clients (operational, finance, procurement, supply chain)Internal stakeholders:OperationsFinanceSales and CommercialDivisional managementRisk and ComplianceIT/Systems

• Coordinate international import and export cargo from origin through to final delivery.
• Liaise with third‑party service providers, including freight forwarders, clearing agents, shipping lines and transport providers.
• Coordinate with overseas suppliers, customers and internal stakeholders to ensure shipments move according to schedule.
• Verify shipping documentation and resolve any documentation discrepancies.
• Coordinate customs clearance and delivery requirements.
• Monitor shipment progress and provide regular status updates to customers and stakeholders.
• Verify freight charges, supplier invoices and supporting documentation.
• Maintain accurate shipment tracking reports and operational records.
• Identify and resolve shipment delays and operational challenges.
• Build strong working relationships with customers, suppliers and service providers.
• Provide operational support after hours and on weekends when required.
• Grade 12 (Matric).
• A qualification in Logistics, Supply Chain, International Trade or a related field will be advantageous.
• 35 years' experience in a similar Import & Export Operations role.
• Proven experience coordinating international import and export cargo.
• Experience working with freight forwarders, clearing agents, shipping lines and transport providers.
• Good understanding of import and export documentation, customs clearance processes and Incoterms.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office.
• Excellent organisational, communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously while meeting strict deadlines.

Key Responsibilities