Senior Imports & Exports Officer

Academic & Professional Requirements

• Degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics n & Transport Management, International Trade, Business Administration, Procurement or related field
  
• Professional Certification in Clearing & Forwarding , Customs Management, Supply chain management or international trade will be an added advantage

Experience

• 5–7 years in imports/exports, with 2+ years at a senior level in an FMCG/Cosmetics environment.
  

Technical Skills

• Proven experience in marine insurance cover arrangement and claims processing.
  
• Strong understanding of Kenyan customs procedures, HS codes, tariffs, and regional trade frameworks.
  
• Advanced hands-on experience with KENTRADE, SIMBA System, and iCMS.
  
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and other ERP Systems.
  
• Strong experience working with clearing and forwarding agencies.
  
• Demonstrated knowledge of sugar import certification processes.
  
• Excellent leadership, coordination, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

Responsibilities & Requirements

1. Regulatory Compliance & Documentation

• Government Liaison: Ensures full adherence to regulations from the KRA, KENTRADE, KEBS, and PPB.
  
• Permit Management: Processes import and export licenses and permits specifically through the KENTRADE portal.
  
• Customs Declarations: Oversees accurate lodging of declarations using the SIMBA and iCMS systems to ensure timely clearance.
  
• Documentation Control: Manages all vital paperwork including invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and export-market certificates.
  
• Audit Support: Maintains comprehensive records to support internal and external audits.

2. Specialized Commodity & Operational Management

• Sugar Industry Expertise: Specifically manages sugar import certifications, including inspections, duty remission, and reconciliation.
  
• Regional Oversight: Coordinates export activities within Kenya and the wider East African region.
  
• Exemptions: Handles specialized KEBS exemptions and approvals required for manufacturing.

3. Logistics, Insurance & Risk Mitigation

• Marine Insurance: Arranges cover for all consignments and leads the end-to-end claims process, including liaison with surveyors and insurers.
  
• Vendor Management: Monitors the performance of clearing and forwarding agencies to prevent delays and demurrage.
  
• Supply Continuity: Tracks shipment timelines and proactively addresses risks to ensure raw materials reach production without interruption.
  
• Incoterms & Freight: Negotiates freight rates and applies a deep understanding of Incoterms to international shipments.

4. Financial & Cost Control

• Cost Optimization: Monitors and controls expenses related to duties, taxes, freight, and logistics.
  
• Strategic Advice: Stays updated on changes to customs laws and tariffs to advise management on cost-saving initiatives.

5. Internal Collaboration & Reporting

• Cross-Functional Alignment: Coordinates with procurement, warehouse, finance, and sales to align logistics with business needs.
  
• Executive Reporting: Provides the Director with regular performance reports covering lead times, compliance, and costs.