Air Import Manager

Our client, a well-respected market leader in providing international freight forwarding and logistics solutions, are recruiting for a talented Air Import Manager to join their team at offices in the London, Heathrow area.

This is a new position that has been created due to business growth.

On Offer:

• A fantastic opportunity to join a leading Multi-National logistics specialist that places a very strong emphasis on high service quality, flexibility, timeliness, responsiveness, and accurate solutions to customers’ needs.
• Competitive Salary: from £50,000 - £60,000, dependent on skills and experience
• Benefits include: 25 Days holiday + Bank holidays

Main Purpose of the Role:

Reporting to Senior Management of the Group, the role involves overseeing a dedicated team of four within the air import operations department, managing the import clearances and deliveries of high-value goods based on clients’ instructions. The ideal candidate is a strategic import leader with a positive and enthusiastic mindset, ready to tackle challenges and drive the team towards excellence.

Duties and Responsibilities of the Air Import Manager:

• Manage a team of four, air import operational staff
• Manage / Create SOPs for smooth day to day operations of the department
• Management of KPIs
• Annual staff assessment
• Plan and manage inbound shipments according to customers’ needs
• Prepare and submit customs documentation, including import declarations, import CITES
• Communicate with clients and internal teams to provide updates on shipment status and resolve any issues that may arise
• Support other members of the import team as needed to ensure smooth operations
• Update shipping files
• Liaise with airlines / airport handlers in a professional manner in order to meet operational requirements and maintain up-to-date schedule information and shipment status reports
• Ensure all quality controls procedures are updated and adhered to

To Be Considered:

• Proven experience in air import freight forwarding / logistics is a must, preferably specialised in the movement of high value goods
• Previous experience of managing a team
• Knowledge of different types of imports is required (eg: bonded warehouse, IPR, TIB, etc)
• Possess a positive and professional customer focus and can-do attitude
• Good organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines
• Works well under pressure and is able to multitask in a fast-paced setting
• Knowledge of customs regulations and import procedures required
• Knowledge of AS400/SAP/MS Office is preferable
• Knowledge of CDS for customs purposes is required
• English language required. Italian / French language is preferable
• No criminal convictions - subject to full DBS check

For full details, please contact Willis Global - a leading Recruitment Consultancy for the Supply Chain & Logistics industry.