Shipping and Customs Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client is a growing international organization within the food and beverage sector, seeking an experienced Shipping & Customs Manager to oversee international shipments, customs compliance and freight operations.
This hands-on role will coordinate with internal teams and external logistics partners to ensure shipments are planned, compliant, cost-effective and delivered on time.

POSITION INFO:
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate and oversee the planning and execution of international shipments.
• Arrange freight bookings with shipping lines, freight forwarders and transport providers.
• Coordinate loading and dispatch requirements with warehouse and operational teams.
• Ensure shipments are fully prepared and operationally ready within agreed timelines.
• Manage customs clearance processes and ensure compliance with applicable South African customs requirements.
• Ensure appropriate tariff classifications, permits and supporting customs documentation are in place.
• Review shipping and customs documentation for accuracy and completeness.
• Liaise with freight forwarders, customs clearing agents, transport providers and other logistics partners.
• Identify and resolve shipment, freight and customs-related issues that could impact delivery.
• Work closely with Customer Service, Warehouse, Transport, Finance and Quality teams to ensure an efficient shipment process.
• Monitor and manage exceptions, delays and operational challenges.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the international logistics function.
• Assess freight and routing options with consideration of cost, lead time, service levels and operational risk.
• Review freight quotations and logistics costs and identify potential cost-saving opportunities.
• Provide commercial input into international shipping, customs and logistics decisions.
• Balance customer requirements and delivery commitments against cost and operational feasibility.
• Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

• Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, International Trade or a related discipline.
• Minimum 5 years' relevant experience within shipping, customs, freight forwarding or international logistics.
• Strong working knowledge of South African customs procedures and SARS requirements.
• Understanding of HS tariff classifications and customs compliance.
• Proven experience dealing with freight forwarders, shipping lines and customs clearing agents.
• Strong organizational, planning and coordination abilities.
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Strong communication and stakeholder management capabilities.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office.
• Experience working on SAP would be advantageous.
• Exposure to manufacturing, FMCG, food or beverage environment would be beneficial.