Import Export Specialist Jobs

About the company:

At Grand Kakao Indonesia, we are passionate about cocoa. Together with our operating partner, we process cocoa beans into semi-finished cocoa products in a manufacturing plant that has operated since 2008.

Vacant Position: Export & Import Specialist

Job type: Full Time

About the role:

As the export and import specialist in cocoa, you will play a pivotal role in supporting the company’s inbound and outbound logistics.

Line Manager: Head Human Relations and General Administration

Location : Makassar, South Sulawesi

No of positions: 01

Contract: Full-time

Responsibilities

Key responsibilities include:

The Export and Import Specialist supports the company's inbound and outbound logistics operations, focusing on customs clearance and documentation. You will ensure compliance with export and import standards and regulations, conduct research and analysis, implement cost-effective methods, verify documents, generate progress reports, and maintain effective communication with external stakeholders such as distributors and customs authorities.

Skills

• Utilize computer literacy: Effectively leverage computer skills, IT equipment, and current technologies.
• Oversee multimodal logistics: Effectively manage the flow of cocoa products using various modes of transportation.
• Coordinate transportation operations: Plan and coordinate the smooth movement of equipment and goods. Negotiate the best shipping rates, compare bids, and select the most reliable and cost-effective transportation options.
• Handle quotes from potential shippers: Evaluate quotations, rates, and services provided by prospective transporters in the market.
• Track merchandise deliveries: Monitor and track logistics organization to ensure accurate and timely shipments of cocoa products.
• Collaborate with internal departments: Work closely with sales, production, and procurement teams to align export and import activities with overall business objectives. Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to ensure smooth execution of logistics operations.
• Ensure timely completion of operational processes: Maintain a strong focus on meeting all deadlines associated with export and import operations.
• Multilingual communication: Acquire proficiency in multiple foreign languages to facilitate effective communication in international contexts.
• Conduct market research and analysis: Stay updated on market trends, regulations, and the competitive landscape of cocoa exports and imports. Provide insights and recommendations to optimize export and import strategies.
• Manage carriers: Organize transportation systems for product delivery and sourcing, including customs procedures.
• Plan and execute export strategies: Implement inbound and outbound logistics processes to enhance operational efficiency based on the company's size and potential advantages in the foreign market. Set targets for exporting cocoa products to minimize risks for potential customers.
• Plan and execute import strategies: Follow and implement import strategies based on the company's size, the type of its products, available knowledge, and global market conditions. Address procedural and strategic challenges, leveraging customs agencies or brokers when necessary.
• Prepare commercial import-export documentation: Complete all necessary formal documents, such as letters of credit, shipping orders, and certificates of origin.
• Continuously improve processes: Identify opportunities for process optimization and implement improvements to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and mitigate risks. Stay updated on industry best practices in export and import logistics.
• Manage insurance claims: File accurate and factual requests with insurance companies for issues covered by insurance policies.
• Ensure customs compliance: Develop robust systems, processes, and escalation procedures to comply with customs regulatory requirements strictly. Proactively mitigate customs claims, supply chain disruption, and overall expenses.
• Maintain communication with freight forwarders: Establish and maintain open lines of communication with shippers and freight forwarders to ensure smooth delivery and distribution of goods.

Knowledge

• Embargo regulation: Knowledge of national, international, and foreign sanctions and embargo regulations
• International business transaction regulations: Knowledge of commercial terminology used in international trade to specify activities, expenses, and risks related to products and services supply.
• International import and export laws and restrictions: Understanding of principles governing product and equipment import/export, trade limitations, health and safety requirements, and licensing.
• Food safety regulations: Familiarity with the national and international legislation governing food hygiene and safety
• Fundamentals of Food Law: Familiarity with legal restrictions and requirements applicable to the food industry nationally and internationally.
• Substance regulations: Understanding regulations on chemical and mixtures' classification, labelling, and packaging.
• Cocoa-based products: Understanding of the cocoa goods' functionality, qualities, and legal and regulatory requirements.

Qualifications

1. Minimum of a bachelor's degree in the relevant field: logistics and trade management.
2. Minimum of 1 year of experience in manufacturing, export, import, and logistics management.
3. Knowledge of letters of credit and shipping documentation.
4. Experienced in export and import operations, logistics, or similar, preferably in the food industry.
5. Strong proficiency in MS Office.
6. Good technical skills in export and import.
7. Strong analytical mindset and skills, communication skills, and good negotiation skills.
8. Experience in dealing with international suppliers and shipping lines, and freight forwarders.
9. Ability to be flexible with job duties, scope of work, and shifts.