Import/Export Manager

Flex is the diversified manufacturing partner of choice that helps market-leading brands design, build and deliver innovative products that improve the world. 

A career at Flex offers the opportunity to make a difference and invest in your growth in a respectful, inclusive, and collaborative environment. If you are excited about a role but don't meet every bullet point, we encourage you to apply and join us to create the extraordinary.

Job Summary

The Import/Export Manager will play a key role in supporting commercial operations, coordinating logistics, adhering to trade compliance regulations, responding to finance queries and supporting import/export activities. Responsible for providing operational expertise to enhance the efficiency and cost effectiveness of the department by establishing and maintaining strong customer relationships, liaising with operations, customers and carriers to ensure customer satisfaction and to deliver maximum advantage to the business.

Key Responsibilities

Import & Export Operations

• Manage end-to-end import and export processes across air, ocean, and road freight.
• Ensure timely and cost-effective movement of goods while maintaining service level agreements (SLAs).
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and carriers.
• Oversee shipment planning, booking, tracking, and exception management.

Trade Compliance & Regulatory Management

• Ensure full compliance with international trade regulations (EU Customs Code, Irish Revenue, HMRC, FDA, etc.).
• Manage customs procedures, including:
  • Import declarations
  • Export declarations
  • Tariff classification (HS codes)
• Maintain and oversee authorisations such as:
  • AEO (Authorised Economic Operator)
  • Inward Processing (IP)
  • Bonded Warehousing
• Ensure adherence to GDP or other industry-specific regulatory standards where applicable.

Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Manage relationships with logistics service providers, including freight forwarders and customs brokers.
• Conduct regular performance reviews and KPI tracking.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with procurement, planning, QA, and finance teams.

Risk Management & Continuous Improvement

• Identify and mitigate risks related to customs compliance and supply chain disruptions.
• Lead root cause analysis for delays, customs hold, and compliance issues.
• Implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce errors.
• Support internal and external audits.

Team Leadership

• Lead, coach, and develop the import/export team.
• Provide training on customs compliance and operational procedures.
• Ensure high levels of performance, accountability, and continuous development.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in logistics, supply chain management, business administration, or a related field.
• At least 5 years of Logistics Management experience with Air freight 
• Strong understanding of logistics principles, practices, and technologies, including transportation, warehousing, inventory management, and trade compliance. Experience as a regulated agent and associated regulations.
• Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to effectively communicate, collaborate, and build relationships at all levels of the organization.
• Proven experience managing freight providers.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to prioritize and multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• AEO certification experience.
• Knowledge of GDP requirements.
• Experience with bonded warehousing or special procedures (IP, OP).
• People management experience.

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Job Category

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Flex is an Equal Opportunity Employer and employment selection decisions are based on merit, qualifications, and abilities. We do not discriminate based on: age, race, religion, color, sex, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, veteran status, disability, pregnancy status, or any other status protected by law. We're happy to provide reasonable accommodations to those with a disability for assistance in the application process. Please email [email protected] and we'll discuss your specific situation and next steps (NOTE: this email does not accept or consider resumes or applications. This is only for disability assistance. To be considered for a position at Flex, you must complete the application process first).