Import Export Supervisor

Job Purpose

The Import & Export Department Supervisor is responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the Uganda Import & Export Department. The role ensures efficient management of trade imports, factory imports, and export operations while strengthening team capability, improving operational processes, coordinating cross-functional projects, and ensuring compliance with international trade regulations and customs requirements. The Supervisor will play a key role in supporting the expansion of the department as the Uganda factory continues to scale its operations.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Management

• Supervise the daily operations of the Uganda Import & Export Department.
• Plan, assign, monitor, and evaluate departmental activities to ensure timely completion of all import and export processes.
• Ensure smooth execution of trade imports, factory imports, and export operations.
• Coordinate departmental priorities to meet business and production requirements.

Process Improvement

• Develop, implement, and continuously optimize import and export operational procedures.
• Identify process inefficiencies and implement improvement initiatives to enhance productivity and service delivery.
• Establish standardized operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure compliance across the department.

Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and supervise the Import & Export team.
• Conduct onboarding, training, mentoring, and performance monitoring of team members.
• Build a high-performing team through continuous skills development and knowledge sharing.
• Promote collaboration, accountability, and operational excellence within the department.

Stakeholder Coordination

• Coordinate import and export activities between internal departments including Procurement, Finance, Warehouse, Production, and Sales.
• Liaise with customs authorities, standards agencies, shipping lines, freight forwarders, clearing agents, and government regulatory bodies.
• Maintain strong working relationships with external partners to facilitate efficient customs clearance and logistics operations.

Customs & Compliance

• Oversee complex customs clearance processes and ensure compliance with applicable import and export regulations.
• Resolve customs-related issues, shipment delays, documentation discrepancies, and regulatory challenges.
• Ensure all shipping and customs documentation is accurate, complete, and compliant with legal requirements.

Project Coordination

• Coordinate factory import and export projects from planning through execution.
• Monitor project timelines, identify potential risks, and implement corrective actions where necessary.
• Support the successful implementation of strategic import and export initiatives.

Organizational Development

• Support the Department Manager in organizational planning and departmental development.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives and operational excellence programs.
• Assist in developing departmental policies, performance indicators, and reporting systems.

Reporting

• Prepare operational reports on shipment status, customs clearance, departmental performance, and project progress.
• Analyze operational data and provide recommendations for process improvements.

Qualifications & Experience

Education

• Master's degree in International Trade, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Commerce, or a related field.
• Candidates with exceptional relevant experience may be considered in lieu of the educational requirement.

Experience

• Minimum of five (5) years' experience in international trade, logistics, customs, or import and export management.
• At least two (2) years of proven experience supervising or managing a team.
• Experience in import/export operations within Africa is highly desirable.
• Experience supporting manufacturing or factory import/export operations is an added advantage.

Knowledge & Skills

• Strong knowledge of international trade procedures, customs regulations, and import/export compliance.
• Thorough understanding of shipping documentation, customs clearance processes, and international logistics.
• Excellent leadership and people management skills.
• Strong planning, organizational, and project management abilities.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• High level of integrity, accountability, and professionalism.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and ERP systems.

KEDA (Kenya) Ceramics Company Limited is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all employees. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

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