Job Description
Bluebird Staffing has a direct hire position for a Import Manager in Buffalo, NY
**Local Candidates or Candidates already moving to the area only*** - no relocation assistance provided
Position Summary:
The Import Manager oversees the day-to-day operations of the branch’s import operations team. The Import Manager must have expert knowledge of import operations, function as an exceptional people leader, and be driven to facilitate the implementation of white-glove customer service to our clients.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities:
- Responsible for Import product profitability including continuous improvement processes to increase efficiencies, reduce waste, and improve performance for our customers
- Manage and control all ground cost margins and prepare monthly activity/revenue reports.
- Prepare and provide customers and overseas offices with rate quotations
- Supervise staff, responsible for hiring, coaching, training, and developing staff.
- Maintain employee records and complete yearly employee performance reviews
- Identify training needs and opportunities to develop a highly skilled functional department
- Ensure customer and operations requirements are met and takes corrective actions in case of deviations from customer requirements
- Responsible for Import P&L
- Lead all related vendors to ensure the highest level of service is achieved, answer customer inquiries and support other related customer service functions
- Responsible for the accuracy of invoices, bills of lading, shipping statements, and the achievement of key performance indicators (KPIs)
- Ensure handling of required documents according to regulations and internal procedures
- Follow-up shipment status in the department, identify incidents and ensure resolution of incidents
- Create, build and maintain excellent relationships with key supplier partners, including ocean carriers, overseas agents, and domestic truckers
- Serve as a subject matter expert for ad-hoc operational questions with regards to accounts which are being serviced
- Ensure that proper implementation of customer has been conducted before Operations team starts regular business service
- Support continuous improvement in process flows for Import Product and serve as CargoWise expert
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Desired Skills/Experience:
- 5-10 years of international freight forwarding experience, specifically in imports
- Strong knowledge of CargoWise freight management system required
- Considerable knowledge of all regulatory aspects related to importing
- Demonstrated personal leadership skills, ability to coach, train, and develop staff
- Certified Customs Specialist (CCS) desired