Import and Export Specialist
Ready to drive cross-border logistics?
We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Import and Export Specialist to oversee the international logistics and trade compliance for Skanem Africa. The role involves managing the import and export of printing materials (e.g., paper, inks, plates), equipment (e.g., printing presses, finishing machines), and printed products while navigating East African and global trade regulations. The ideal candidate will have expertise in regional trade frameworks (e.g., EAC, COMESA, AfCFTA), customs procedures, and the printing industry’s supply chain demands.
Shipment Coordination:
Manage the import and export of printing materials, equipment, and finished products, coordinating with suppliers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and logistics providers across East Africa and globally.
Arrange cost-effective transportation (sea, air, or road) via key ports (e.g., Mombasa, Dar es Salaam) and track shipments to ensure timely delivery, addressing regional challenges like port delays or inland transport issues.
Documentation Management:
Prepare and verify shipping and customs documents, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, and Harmonized System (HS) codes specific to printing products (e.g., HS codes for printed matter or printing machinery).
Ensure compliance with East African Community (EAC) customs requirements, COMESA protocols, and African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) regulations.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure adherence to national and regional import/export laws, including Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Tanzania Revenue Authority (TRA), Uganda Revenue Authority (URA), and other East African customs agencies.
Stay updated on trade agreements, tariffs, and non-tariff barriers affecting printing materials (e.g., duties on imported paper or inks) and leverage preferential trade terms under EAC or AfCFTA.
Customs Clearance:
Liaise with customs authorities and clearing agents to facilitate smooth clearance of goods, resolving issues related to inspections or documentation discrepancies.
Maintain accurate records for audits by regional tax authorities or trade bodies.
Cost Optimization:
Optimize logistics costs by selecting efficient shipping routes, consolidating shipments, and negotiating rates with regional and international freight forwarders.
Mitigate costs related to regional trade barriers, such as high port charges or cross-border levies, while ensuring quality delivery of printing materials.
Industry-Specific Support:
Collaborate with production teams to ensure imported materials (e.g., specialty paper, eco-friendly inks) meet printing quality standards and client specifications.
Support the import of printing equipment (e.g., offset presses, digital printers) and spare parts, ensuring compliance with regional safety and technical standards.
Stakeholder Communication:
Work closely with internal teams (procurement, sales, warehouse) and external partners (suppliers; regional clients) to align import/export activities with business goals.
Communicate shipment updates and resolve issues promptly, considering time zone differences with global suppliers.
Market and Sustainability Trends:
Monitor global and regional trends in printing materials (e.g., demand for sustainable packaging or recycled paper) to source cost-effective and compliant suppliers.
Support compliance with environmental regulations for printing materials, such as restrictions on chemical-based inks in East Africa.
Person Specifications
Academic Qualifications:
• Bachelor’s degree in international business, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field (preferred).
• A Diploma in Clearing and Forwarding, International Trade, or equivalent with relevant experience may be considered.
Experience:
• Minimum of twelve (12) years experience in import/export operations, logistics, or freight forwarding, preferably in the printing, manufacturing, or related industries.
• Experience with East African logistics, including familiarity with ports (Mombasa, Dar es Salaam) and regional trade frameworks (EAC, COMESA, AfCFTA), is highly desirable.
• Knowledge of the printing industry’s supply chain (e.g., paper, ink, printing equipment) is a plus.
Skills and Attributes
Technical Skills:
• Proficient in logistics software, ERP systems (e.g., SAP, Odoo), and Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, Word).
• Strong understanding of HS code classification, customs procedures, and regional trade regulations.
• Familiarity with printing industry materials and equipment specifications.
Soft Skills:
• Exceptional organizational skills to manage multiple shipments and tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• High attention to detail for accurate documentation and compliance.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills to engage with regional and global stakeholders.
• Problem-solving ability to address logistical challenges, such as port congestion or border delays.
Strong preferences will be given to candidates with the requisite qualifications, skills and experience. The title should be clearly indicated as email reference. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Details
Import and Export Specialist
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Published: May 16, 2025
Deadline: May 28, 2025
Start date: Flexible
Apply now
