Country Head - Import Export Clearance Operations

He/She will lead all country-level importation, customs clearance, and regulatory compliance operations.

The role will ensure timely release of shipments, compliance with local regulations, and coordination with Dubai supply chain leadership to achieve regional KPIs.

Role & responsibilities

1. Import & Customs Leadership

• Manage end-to-end import clearance process for all incoming shipments
• Ensure full compliance with local import regulations.
• Manage relationships with clearing agents and port authorities.
• Prevent demurrage, detention, and storage penalties.

2. Documentation & Regulatory Compliance

• Validate all shipping documents prior to clearance.
• Ensure conformity certificates, inspections, and approvals are secured.
• Monitor changes in import policies and duties.

3. Shipment Clearance & Monitoring

• Coordinate with Dubai office on: Shipment status, Clearing updates, Claims & discrepancies, Inspection reports.
• Coordinate inspection, documentation, and duty payments.
• Minimize demurrage and detention costs.

4. Local Team Leadership

• Lead local import & clearance team.
• Ensure accurate documentation submission.
• Ensure reporting discipline and operational transparency.
• Train team on SOP compliance.

5. Coordination with Dubai

• Provide real‑time shipment updates.
• Report clearance status and delays.
• Coordinate claims and documentation discrepancies.

6. Regulatory & Government Relations

• Maintain working relationships with customs and regulatory bodies.
• Ensure licensing and certifications remain valid.

7. Claims & Dispute Resolution

• Handle port disputes, shortages, damages.
• Liaise with insurers and shipping lines where necessary.

8. KPI Execution

• Achieve agreed KPIs set by Dubai Supply Director.
• Provide weekly operational reports.
• Achieve clearance timelines.
• Reduce port-related costs.
• Maintain compliance record.

Preferred candidate profile

• 6+ years of experience in West African import and clearance operations
• Deep understanding of: Customs procedures, Port operations, HS codes & duty structures, Francophone African regulatory environment
• Strong relationships with: Customs officials, Clearing agents, Port operators
• Experience managing local operational teams
• Strong negotiation skills
• High integrity
• French (Fluent), English (Fluent)
• Experience in handling agricultural chemicals, bulk shipments, and in transit/by road preferred