Import Manager

Overview

As Import Manager you will lead international freight operations, customs compliance, and relationships with logistics providers in a market-leading FMCG import-distributor. You will own end-to-end import activities, drive cost control and performance while supporting ongoing export growth. You collaborate with an Import & Export Coordinator to keep administrative tasks streamlined and focus on continuous improvement and operational excellence. This role offers hands-on impact in shaping compliant, efficient global freight processes and supplier partnerships.

Responsibilities

• Manage the import freight operation to ensure efficient and compliant movement of goods
• Lead relationships with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers
• Negotiate freight rates and monitor logistics costs
• Oversee customs compliance including classification, declarations, origin, and documentation
• Resolve shipment delays, customs issues, and supply chain escalations
• Monitor performance of forwarders and brokers against service and cost objectives
• Maintain accurate shipping and customs data
• Drive continuous improvement across import and freight processes

Key requirements

• Experience in Import, 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
• strong communication
• stakeholder management
• supplier relationship-building
• UK customs requirements
• CDS
• Incoterms 2020

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