Full job description

Job Summary

We are looking for an experienced Logistics Manager – Import & Export to manage our end-to-end international logistics operations. The candidate should have strong practical experience in import, export, re-export, customs clearance, freight forwarding and shipping documentation, preferably within a trading/FMCG environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end-to-end import, export and re-export shipments.
• Coordinate sea, air and land freight with shipping lines, freight forwarders, transporters and clearing agents.
• Obtain and negotiate competitive freight rates and identify opportunities to reduce logistics costs.
• Handle and verify shipping documentation including Commercial Invoice, Packing List, Bill of Lading/AWB, Certificate of Origin and customs documents.
• Coordinate customs clearance and ensure compliance with UAE Customs requirements.
• Monitor shipments from booking until final delivery, including ETD, ETA and shipment status.
• Coordinate with suppliers, customers, warehouse, sales, purchasing and finance teams.
• Ensure correct HS Codes, Incoterms and import/export documentation are followed.
• Monitor and minimize demurrage, detention, storage and other avoidable logistics charges.
• Verify freight, transportation and clearance invoices.
• Maintain shipment trackers and prepare weekly/monthly logistics reports.
• Resolve shipment delays, documentation discrepancies and customs-related issues.
• Continuously improve logistics processes to achieve faster delivery and lower costs.

Requirements

• Minimum 3 years of relevant experience in Import/Export & Logistics.
• UAE logistics/import-export experience strongly preferred.
• Strong knowledge of UAE customs clearance and shipping procedures.
• Good understanding of Incoterms, HS Codes and international trade documentation.
• Hands-on experience dealing with shipping lines, freight forwarders, clearing agents and transport companies.
• Experience handling FCL, LCL, air freight and road shipments.
• Strong negotiation and cost-control skills.
• Good knowledge of Microsoft Excel and MS Office; ERP experience is an advantage.
• Excellent communication, coordination and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments simultaneously and work under pressure.
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, International Business, Commerce or related field preferred.
• Preferred Industry Experience: FMCG / General Trading / Consumer Goods / Import-Export

Preferred Candidate

• We are looking for a hands-on logistics professional, not only a documentation coordinator. The candidate should be capable of independently managing shipments, negotiating freight rates, handling customs/clearance issues and ensuring goods reach their destination on time and at the most competitive logistics cost.

Full job description

• Operations Management: Establish and implement SOPs, delegate tasks effectively, prioritize urgent jobs, and ensure smooth daily operations.
• Problem Solving & Compliance: Provide expert solutions for customs clearance delays, documentation issues, shipment handling, and other operational challenges.
• Cost & Profitability Management: Optimize freight costs, routing, and resources while identifying cost-saving opportunities without compromising service quality.
• Supplier & Performance Management: Manage supplier relationships, conduct regular performance reviews, analyze operational and financial data, and provide management with timely performance updates.
• Have knowledge of all freight modes, including FCL, LCL, RORO, breakbulk, project cargo, etc.
• Be familiar with all processes related to import, export, transit, and multimodal transport.
• Have a strong understanding of port procedures.
• Demonstrate expertise in reaching difficult destinations using various transport modes.
• Understand the handling requirements of different cargo types, including temperature-controlled, high-value, and oversized cargo.
• Be knowledgeable about all types of clearance applicable in the GCC and other regions.
• Have awareness of free zone formalities.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 7+ years of experience in logistics, freight forwarding, transportation, or operations management, with proven team leadership experience.
• Strong knowledge of shipping, transportation, customs clearance, documentation, and logistics operations.
• Proven ability to manage teams, set KPIs, improve operational performance, and implement SOPs.
• Strong skills in cost control, budgeting, supplier management, and identifying cost-saving opportunities.
• Excellent problem-solving, decision-making, communication, and negotiation skills.
• Ability to analyze operational and financial data, prepare reports, and provide recommendations to management.
• Experience managing transporters, shipping lines, suppliers, and logistics service providers.
• Good knowledge of MS Office, especially Excel, and experience using logistics/ERP systems.
• UAE logistics experience and knowledge of local customs and transportation procedures will be an advantage.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.