Import Manager

Market-leading FMCG, importer-distributor business requires an Import Manager to lead all importing, exporting, customs compliance activities. Applicants should have hands-on experience in imports, freight forwarding, customs compliance and international logistics, ideally within a product-based, distribution, retail, eCommerce, manufacturing or freight forwarder environment.

The Import Manager will take ownership of international freight operations, customs compliance, forwarder and broker management, freight cost control, and shipment escalations. The role is heavily import-focused (circa 95%), with export activity expected to increase over time. The Import Manager will focus on operational management, compliance, continuous improvement, and freight performance, being supported by an Import & Export Coordinator who will support with administrative tasks.

Specific duties of the Import Manager include:

• Manage the company's import freight operation, ensuring goods move efficiently and compliantly.
• Lead relationships with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers.
• Negotiate freight rates and monitor freight costs.
• Oversee customs compliance, including classification, declarations, origin, and documentation.
• Resolve shipment delays, customs issues, and supply chain escalations.
• Monitor forwarder and broker performance against service and cost objectives.
• Maintain accurate shipping and customs data.
• Drive continuous improvement across import and freight processes.

Import Manager applicants should meet the following criteria:

• Experience in Import, Export, Customs, International Trade, Freight Forwarding, or Logistics roles.
• Strong knowledge of UK customs requirements, CDS, and Incoterms 2020.
• Experience managing freight forwarders and customs brokers.
• Understanding of customs declarations, classification, valuation, and origin requirements.
• Experience negotiating freight rates and controlling logistics costs.
• Able to work independently and make sound operational decisions.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management, and supplier relationship-building skills.
• A customs or international trade qualification would be advantageous, but is not essential.