Import Manager

Recruitech (Pty) Ltd; Durban; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading freight and logistics company is seeking a highly capable Import Manager to lead their import department in Durban. This hands-on leadership role is ideal for an individual experienced in managing import operations and ensuring compliance with customs regulations, as well as driving team performance and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Several years of hands-on experience in freight forwarding/import operations.
• Proven experience in a senior import role with staff management.
• Strong knowledge of import documentation and customs procedures.

Responsibilities

• Lead the import department and manage staff.
• Ensure compliance with customs and trade regulations.
• Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvements in service delivery.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Multitasking

Education

Tertiary qualification in Freight, Logistics, Supply Chain

Tools

ShipShape

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

My client, an established freight and logistics company, is seeking a highly capable Import Manager to lead their import department.

This is a hands-on leadership role suited to someone who can effectively manage staff while overseeing import operations, documentation, and revenue reporting.

Responsibilities:

1. Managing staff with HR.
2. Maintain compliance with customs and trade regulations, including relevant international and local laws.
3. Liaise with shipping lines, customs brokers, clients, and internal departments.
4. Handle operational issues, providing quick and effective resolutions.
5. Monitor KPIs and drive continuous improvements in service delivery and staff performance.
6. Stay up to date with changes in trade compliance and advise the business accordingly.
7. Manage the operations departments - Forwarding, Registration, Entries, Releases, Transport, NVOCC, and Warehouse.
8. Manage discipline and training of staff in operations with HR.
9. Manage accrual and provisional revenue for the Imports department.
10. Manage Import Shipment number records.
11. Supervise system updates, enhancements, and process reviews to streamline operations.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Tertiary qualification in Freight, Logistics, Supply Chain, or a related field.
• Proficient in ShipShape or similar freight forwarding software.
• Strong knowledge of Incoterms and international trade procedures.
• Several years of hands-on experience in freight forwarding / import operations.
• Technology-oriented with a systems-driven mindset and adaptability to new platforms.
• Ability to contribute to overall business success, understanding process flows and implementing operational changes.
• Proven experience in a senior import role with staff management responsibilities.
• Excellent knowledge of import documentation, customs procedures, and Incoterms.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• High attention to detail and ability to manage complex shipments and paperwork.
• Proficiency in freight forwarding systems and Microsoft Office Suite.
• Ability to multitask and perform under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

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