Business Director – Import Export

We are currently hiring on behalf of our client, Dololo Import Export Company. They are seeking a Business Director with strong experience in the import-export industry, particularly with a focus on import operations.

About the Role:

Dololo Import and Export PLC is a leading Ethiopian supplier of high-quality paper products, specializing in the import and distribution of writing, printing, and specialty paper. Since entering the market, we import from globally recognized paper manufacturers in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East and currently supply major printing enterprises across Ethiopia.

Hence we need a qualified Business director to lead and manage the overall operations of Dololo Import and Export PLC, ensuring strategic execution, regulatory compliance, financial efficiency, and profitable growth. The Business Director will be responsible for overseeing all units including sales, marketing, logistics, procurement, and customs clearance, with strong alignment to Ethiopian trade practices and regulations. The role also requires active leadership in business development, innovation, risk management, and digital integration to support the company’s long-term competitiveness and resilience.

 

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Team Leadership

• Promote a high-performance, results-oriented culture across all teams.
• Set KPIs, conduct performance reviews, and provide training.
• Foster a culture of learning, collaboration, and accountability.
• Support talent development programs to address skill gaps and build leadership capacity.
• Set and review monthly, quarterly, and annual sales targets in collaboration with the sales and marketing team.
• Analyze performance data to support data-driven decisions.
• Encourage cross-functional collaboration and talent retention strategies aligned with company culture and growth.
• Report to senior management on trade performance, ROI, and market expansion progress.

 

Import Management

• Negotiate contracts with suppliers, freight forwarders, and distributors globally.
• Ensure compliance with trade regulations, tariffs, and documentation (L/C, BL, COO).
• Monitor shipping schedules, costs, and risk mitigation (currency fluctuations, geopolitical factors)
• Develop and implement the annual business plan in alignment with the company’s objectives and Ethiopia’s trading environment.
• Develop internal systems to ensure cost-effective importation, including container planning, supplier coordination, and freight negotiation.
• Oversee all activities related to import permits, LC processing, customs clearance, and dry port operations.

 

Marketing and Business Development

• Develop and implement marketing strategies to penetrate new markets and strengthen brand presence.
• Conduct market research to identify trends, competitors, and growth opportunities.
• Lead digital and traditional marketing campaigns (trade shows, B2B partnerships).
• Analyze sales data to adjust pricing, promotions, and product positioning.
• Regularly review and adapt strategic plans to reflect market dynamics, global trends, and internal performance metrics.
• Explore new markets within Ethiopia.
• Lead cost-saving initiatives, risk assessments, and scenario planning for financial sustainability.

• Bacheller degree in business management, logistics, international trade, or related fields
• Eight or more years of overall experience in import-export operations and marketing/business development, including at least three years in a senior leadership position within the private sector or equivalent experience in a complex, results-oriented environment.
• Strong understanding of Ethiopian customs, logistics operations, and commercial banking (LCs, permits, insurance).
• Experience in tender processes, especially for government and large institutional clients, is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office, ERP systems, and reporting tools.
• Demonstrated ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Knowledge of digital transformation and emerging technologies
• Excellent negotiation and communication ability (both Amharic and English)
• Strong organizational, planning, and decision-making skills