Import/Export Manager

Job Summary

Our client is seeking a highly experienced Import/Export Manager to oversee and manage all import and export operations, ensuring efficiency, compliance, and profitability. This role involves planning, organizing, directing, coordinating, and controlling international trade activities, including procurement, sales, marketing, and logistics. The Import/Export Manager will also be responsible for developing market strategies, negotiating contracts, ensuring regulatory compliance, and optimizing supply chain operations.

Key Responsibilities

Import & Export Operations

• Identify types of goods to be imported and exported, determining optimal timing, pricing, and contract terms.
• Manage communications with foreign suppliers and principals to obtain information on product specifications, sales terms, packaging, shipping schedules, and carrier selection.
• Negotiate and finalize contracts for purchases, sales, and commission agency services, ensuring compliance with company policies.
• Oversee forex auctions, analyze trends, and propose appropriate auction rates for current applications.
• Ensure the timely acquisition of necessary documents for securing foreign exchange and manage supplier payments (L/C or CAD) as per contract terms.
• Monitor shipment schedules, shipping document dispatch, goods inspection, customs clearance, and handover to company or customer warehouses.

Regulatory Compliance & Risk Management

• Ensure all import and export activities comply with Ethiopian Customs Laws & Practices and international trade regulations.
• Obtain clearance from the National Bank for utilized forex and ensure timely submission of required documentation.
• Ensure that appropriate insurance policies are secured for imported products and handle claims for damages, shortages, or non-conforming goods.
• Investigate irregularities in import, export, local purchases, and commission agency services, taking corrective actions where necessary.

Marketing & Business Development

• Develop and implement marketing and customer service strategies to enhance import, export, and agency services.
• Conduct market research to identify new opportunities, forecast demand, and initiate strategies to meet future market needs.
• Manage international marketing and sales efforts, including advertising, promotions, and negotiations to expand the company’s reach in global markets.

Process Improvement & Reporting

• Establish and enforce operational policies and procedures for efficient import/export management.
• Prepare and submit periodic reports on trade performance, market trends, and financial analysis.
• Utilize data from the Ethiopian Electronic Single Window and Electronic Government Procurement platforms to enhance efficiency and compliance.

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Marketing, Business Management, International Trade, Economics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in import/export business, with at least 4 years in a managerial position.