Logistics Specialist

Roles and responsibilities

• Overseas Shipment Coordination: Plan and oversee the shipment of goods to and from international locations, ensuring efficient and timely delivery.
• C&F Agent Management: Collaborate with Clearing and Forwarding (C&F) agents to ensure smooth customs clearance and compliance with all necessary documentation.
• Freight Negotiation: Negotiate rates with shipping lines and freight forwarders to ensure cost-effective transportation.
• Customs Documentation: Prepare and review critical shipping documents such as Bills of Lading, Commercial Invoices, and Packing Lists, ensuring full compliance with customs regulations.
• Shipment Tracking: Monitor and manage the status of shipments, coordinating with port authorities and addressing any delays or issues promptly.
• Inventory Management: Coordinate the movement of inventory between international suppliers and local warehouses, maintaining accurate stock records.
• Vendor Coordination: Maintain strong relationships with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and logistics service providers.
• Regulatory Compliance: Stay informed about international shipping regulations, import/export laws, and ensure that all logistics activities comply with relevant laws and standards.
• Cost Control: Monitor logistics costs, identifying and implementing strategies to reduce expenses while maintaining quality service.
• Risk Management: Identify potential risks in the logistics chain and develop mitigation strategies to handle delays, damages, or non-compliance issues.
• Collaboration: Work closely with procurement, sales, and finance teams to align logistics operations with the company's business objectives.

• Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years of experience managing overseas shipments and working with C&F agents.
• Strong understanding of international shipping regulations, customs procedures, and trade compliance.
• Proficiency in logistics management software and tools.
• Excellent negotiation, communication, and organizational skills.

Desired candidate profile

1. Supply Chain Management

• End-to-End Supply Chain Knowledge: Understanding how the entire supply chain works, from procurement and production to distribution and delivery.
• Inventory Management: Ensuring that inventory is well-managed, optimizing stock levels, and reducing excess or shortages.
• Demand Forecasting: Analyzing trends and data to predict future product demand and ensure the right stock levels are maintained.

2. Transportation Management

• Route Optimization: Planning and optimizing delivery routes for cost and time efficiency.
• Carrier Relations: Working with third-party transportation companies (trucking, freight, couriers) to negotiate rates and ensure timely deliveries.
• Tracking and Monitoring: Keeping track of shipments, managing delays, and ensuring that goods are delivered on time.

3. Warehouse Operations

• Warehouse Layout and Design: Ensuring the warehouse is organized and optimized for efficient storage, picking, packing, and shipping.
• Stock Control: Ensuring accurate inventory counts and addressing discrepancies.
• Safety and Compliance: Making sure that all warehouse processes comply with safety regulations, as well as industry standards for handling and storing goods.

4. Vendor and Supplier Coordination

• Building Relationships: Maintaining strong relationships with suppliers, vendors, and manufacturers to ensure timely delivery of goods.
• Negotiating Contracts: Negotiating rates, terms, and service level agreements (SLAs) with suppliers, ensuring optimal prices and delivery terms.
• Quality Control: Ensuring that products from suppliers meet required standards and specifications before they are shipped or stored.

5. Project Management

• Planning and Execution: Developing detailed plans for logistics operations, managing timelines, and ensuring projects are completed on schedule.
• Problem-Solving: Identifying issues that may arise during the logistics process (e.g., delays, damage, lost shipments) and finding effective solutions.
• Risk Management: Proactively identifying risks (e.g., transportation issues, supply disruptions) and developing contingency plans.