Freight Operations and Customs Manager

takealot.com; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 200,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading South African online retailer is seeking a Freight Operations and Customs Manager to oversee freight forwarding and customs clearance at their Cape Town Distribution Centre. This role focuses on operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and exceptional client service. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in logistics and strong negotiation skills. Join a dynamic team focused on growth and innovation.

Qualifications

• Experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or customs operations is required.
• Proven experience working in an international environment with multi-modal transport.
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Supervise end-to-end freight-forwarding operations.
• Coordinate with carriers, shipping lines, and transport providers.
• Ensure customs clearance procedures are completed accurately.

Skills

Experience presenting to senior managers

Proven track record of delivering results

Competence in Excel and PowerPoint

Commercially minded, strong negotiator

Data-driven and analytical

Excellent communication and presentation skills

Education

5 - 7 years’ experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or customs operations

Strong knowledge of import/export regulations and INCOTERMS

Tools

CargoWise

Job description

takealot.com, a leading South African online retailer, is looking for a highly talented Freight Operations and Customs Manager to join our Distribution Centre in Cape Town.

We are a young, dynamic, hyper growth company looking for smart, creative, hardworking people with integrity to join us. We offer a market related, Total Remuneration Package which allows full flexibility according to your needs, a great work environment and a promise that you won’t be bored as long as you are prepared for a challenge and want to build something great.

This position reports to : Head of Takealot Freight Forwarding

Purpose of this position:

To manage and oversee all freight-forwarding, customs clearance, and operational activities to ensure the smooth flow of goods and efficient management of customs compliance for international and domestic shipments. This role focuses on delivering exceptional service to clients while ensuring regulatory compliance, cost optimization, and operational efficiency, with a strategic outlook towards ensuring sustainable and cost-effective business growth and expansion.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Supervise end-to-end freight-forwarding operations, including planning, booking, and managing shipments via air, sea, and land.
• Coordinate with carriers, shipping lines, and transport providers to ensure timely transportation of goods.
• Optimize operational processes to improve on-time delivery and minimize delays.
• Ensure all customs clearance procedures are completed accurately and in compliance with international and local trade regulations.
• Remain updated on customs regulations, tariff classifications, and trade policies to provide clients with expert advice.
• Manage permits, licenses, and certifications related to import/export activities.
• Act as the main point of contact for clients to address inquiries, provide updates, and resolve shipment or clearance issues.
• Maintain strong relationships with customers, suppliers, and customs authorities.
• Implement and maintain freight and customs software (CargoWise) systems for efficient documentation, shipment processing and tracking.
• Oversee the preparation and review of shipping documentation, including bills of lading, invoices, and customs declarations.
• Handle disruptions, including re-routing shipments or resolving customs delays efficiently and appropriately.
• Ensure adherence to global trade laws to mitigate risks of penalties or delays.
• Prepare regular operational performance and financial reports for management.
• Analyse data to identify trends, improve operations, and enhance efficiency.
• Local and International travel as required.

Skills Required

• Experience presenting to senior managers.
• Proven track record of delivering results.
• Competence in Excel (Google Sheets) & PowerPoint (Google Slides)
• Ability to go beyond what is expected.
• Commercially minded, strong negotiator
• Data-driven and analytical
• Solutions-oriented, can-do attitude; initiative-taking
• Excellent communication and presentation skills
• Ability to develop senior level relationships effectively.
• Strong prioritization and time management skills
• Comfortable with change and excellent collaborator
• Ability to manage multiple opportunities simultaneously

Qualification & Experience

• 5 - 7 years’ experience in freight forwarding, logistics, or customs operations (management experience preferred)
• Proven experience working in an international environment with multi-modal transport
• Strong knowledge of import/export regulations and INCOTERMS
• Proficiency in freight-forwarding and customs clearance systems/software
• Exceptional negotiation, leadership, and interpersonal skills
• Analytical and problem-solving skills with a results-driven mindset
• Ability to manage multiple deadlines in a fast-paced environment

If you meet the above you are an Extraordinary Mind so come and join us!

takealot is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Applicants from the previously disadvantaged groups and people with disabilities will be given preference.