المسمى الوظيفي

Role Overview

The Importation Manager oversees the comprehensive planning, coordination, and management of all import processes to guarantee the punctual, compliant, and cost-effective delivery of imported goods to the company's warehouse. This position ensures strict adherence to Nigerian customs laws while optimizing import lead times, stock availability, and costs.

Core Responsibilities

Organize and monitor all incoming shipments from international vendors to ensure timely and complete deliveries.
Track purchase orders from confirmation through to final receipt.
Collaborate with freight forwarders, shipping agents, customs brokers, and transportation services.
Handle essential import documentation including Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading, Certificate of Origin, SONCAP, Form M, PAAR, among others.
Guarantee full compliance with Nigerian Customs Service guidelines and manage regulatory requirements like Form M, PAAR, SON, NAFDAC certificates.
Maintain effective communication with customs officials, agents, and relevant government bodies.
Stay updated on changes in import regulations and inform internal teams accordingly.
Ensure all applicable duties, taxes, and fees are correctly calculated and remitted.
Partner with Buying and Supply Chain teams to forecast import demands and monitor supplier production and shipment schedules.
Minimize inventory shortages and maintain optimal stock levels by efficient container use and shipment consolidation.
Negotiate logistics and freight charges with service providers, analyze all import expenses including duties, freight, demurrage, and clearing fees.
Identify and implement measures to decrease logistics expenses and enhance operational efficiency.
Develop and maintain strong partnerships with international suppliers and coordinate with merchandising, finance, warehouse, and customs clearing agents.
Address and resolve delays or supply chain issues expediently.
Monitor and report key performance indicators such as shipment punctuality, customs clearance times, import costs, container usage, demurrage charges, and supplier performance.
Prepare regular reports for management review.

Qualifications and Experience

Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or related disciplines.
Professional certifications such as CILT, APICS/ASCM are advantageous.
Between 5 to 8 years’ experience in import/export functions, with a minimum of 3 years within retail, supermarket, FMCG, or distribution sectors.
In-depth knowledge of Nigerian import requirements, customs procedures, and international shipping processes.

Skill Set

Expertise in import operations and customs compliance.
Management of international logistics and understanding of Incoterms.
Inventory forecasting and supplier relationship management.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving capabilities.
Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
Familiarity with ERP software like Microsoft Dynamics, Oracle, or SAP, and advanced Microsoft Excel skills.

Performance Indicators

Availability and on-time delivery of imported products.
Lead times for customs clearance.
Import costs per shipment container and minimization of demurrage/detention fees.
Compliance rates of import documentation and stock-out frequencies.
Accuracy of import demand forecasts.

Reporting Structure

Reports directly to the Supply Chain Manager.
Collaborates with Buying, Merchandising, Finance, Warehousing, Distribution, Quality Assurance, and Store Operations teams.

Importation Manager

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