Import Team Lead

Description: POSITION OVERVIEW As the Import Team Lead, you will play a fundamental role in leading and managing our import operations team in the customs brokerage and freight forwarding. This position requires a seasoned professional with extensive knowledge of import processes, international movement of cargo, freight quotations, customs regulations, and compliance. The Import Team Lead is responsible for overseeing the team's day-to-day activities, ensuring efficient and compliant importation of goods for our clients, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team environment. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES 1. Team Leadership: Lead, mentor, and inspire a team of import specialists and support staff. Provide guidance, training, and support to team members to ensure their success and professional growth. Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment. Properly manage scheduling for import team members and assist in performance evaluations. 2. Customs Compliance Management: Oversee all aspects of customs compliance within the import team, ensuring strict adherence to customs regulations, tariff classifications, and documentation requirements. Monitor and enforce compliance with import-related laws and regulations. 3. Freight Forwarding: Oversee all aspects of freight forwarding within the import team. Assist with the movement of freight and quotations as needed. Communicate with overseas agents and vendors. 4. Strategic Planning: Collaborate with management to develop and implement strategic plans for the import department. Set clear goals and objectives for the team to achieve long-term success. 5. Client Engagement: Act as a senior point of contact for key clients, providing exceptional customer service. Address complex client inquiries, concerns, and provide strategic guidance on import operations. 6. Customs Documentation Review: Review and approve import documentation prepared by team members, ensuring accuracy, completeness, and compliance with customs regulations. 7. Customs Clearance Leadership: Manage and supervise the customs clearance process for a wide range of imported goods. Ensure proper tariff classifications and coordination with customs authorities. 8. Problem Resolution: Address and resolve complex import-related challenges, including customs delays, documentation discrepancies, or transportation issues. Provide expert guidance and support to team members in resolving issues and escalating as needed. 9. Accounting: Responsible for properly billing clients and vetting payments to vendors according to company policy and provides other accounting functions as needed. 10. Vendor and Stakeholder Relations: Foster and maintain strong working relationships with vendors, carriers, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Facilitate the import process and resolve high-level issues. 11. Reporting and Analytics: Analyze import-related reports, such as clearance statuses and compliance records. Use data-driven insights to drive process improvements and strategic decision-making. 12. Continuous Improvement: Identify opportunities for process enhancements within the import department. Implement best practices and contribute to the ongoing improvement of operations. Contribute to the ongoing enhancement of the import team through training and performance development. 13. Regulatory Compliance: Ensure that the import team adheres to all applicable laws, regulations, and industry standards. Stay informed about changes and updates in customs and international trade regulations. 14. Time Management: Ability to handle high volumes and multiple accounts at one time, including serving as a back up to other import roles. 15. Development: Contribute to knowledge sharing by training team members and developing, maintaining, and improving Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to ensure consistency, accuracy, and compliance. Requirements: QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS 1. Education: High school diploma or equivalent; a bache…

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