Specialist - Imports Planner

Defy; KwaZulu-Natal; On-site; ZAR 450 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading appliance manufacturer in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal is seeking a Specialist - Imports Planning. The role involves coordinating with suppliers, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, and managing shipping costs. The ideal candidate will have a Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management and 4-6 years of relevant experience. Strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills are essential. This position offers the chance to optimize import processes and work collaboratively across departments.

Qualifications

• 4 - 6 years of experience in import planning, logistics, or supply chain management.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite and supply chain management software.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate with suppliers to confirm order quantities and delivery schedules.
• Ensure compliance with customs regulations and trade agreements.
• Build relationships with international suppliers and freight forwarders.
• Negotiate shipping costs and identify cost-saving opportunities.
• Collaborate with inventory and warehouse management teams.

Skills

Strong knowledge of international shipping regulations

Excellent analytical skills

Problem-solving skills

Strong communication skills

Organizational skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management

Tools

SAP

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

We are currently on a search for a Specialist - Imports Planning to join the largest manufacturer and distributor of major appliances in Southern Africa, to be based in Durban, Jacobs.

Import Planning:

Coordinate with suppliers to confirm order quantities, delivery schedules, and shipping methods. Prepare and maintain import shipment schedules and timelines.

Documentation and Compliance:

Ensure all import documentation complies with customs regulations and trade agreements, including invoices, packing lists, and bill of lading. Work with customs brokers to resolve any issues that arise during the import process.

Supplier Coordination:

Build and maintain strong relationships with international suppliers and freight forwarders. Communicate regularly with suppliers to monitor order ready date and query potential delays.

Cost Management:

Evaluate and negotiate shipping costs with freight carriers and logistics providers. Identify opportunities for cost savings in the import process through process improvements and strategic sourcing.

Inventory Management:

Collaborate with inventory and warehouse management teams to optimize storage and distribution processes.

Data Analysis and Reporting:

Analyze import data to identify trends, issues, and areas for improvement. Prepare regular reports on import performance metrics, including lead times, costs, and supplier performance.

Collaboration:

Work closely with cross-functional teams, including purchasing, finance, and sales, to align import strategies with overall business objectives. Participate in team meetings and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management
• 4 - 6 years of experience in import planning, logistics, or supply chain management.
• Strong knowledge of international shipping regulations and customs compliance requirements.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) and supply chain management software (e.g., SAP).
• Excellent analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively across departments.
• Attention to detail and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.