Import & Export Logistics Manager

Position Summary

The Import & Export Logistics Manager is responsible for leading logistics team to oversee end-to-end international logistics operations, ensuring full compliance with customs regulations, efficient shipment execution, cost optimization, and strong coordination with internal and external stakeholders. This role manages import/export activities, customs compliance, freight operations, and logistics process improvements to support business continuity and operational excellence.

1. Regulatory Trade Compliance Management

• Monitor and stay updated on changes in international trade regulations, customs laws, and import/export compliance requirements.

• Advise internal stakeholders on regulatory changes and operational impacts.

• Ensure full compliance with customs, trade, and transportation regulations across all import and export activities.

• Conduct periodic compliance reviews and audits, implementing corrective and preventive actions where necessary.

• Manage strategic goods permit applications and ensure compliance for dual-use or controlled products.

2. Customs Documentation & Clearance

• Oversee tariff classification and ensure accuracy of customs declarations and shipping documentation.

• Manage import/export permit submissions through relevant government systems such as TradeNet, CrimsonLogic.

• Coordinate with customs brokers, freight forwarders, and government authorities to ensure timely customs clearance.

• Ensure proper maintenance and retention of customs documentation and audit records.

3. Logistics Operations & Shipment Management

• Lead end-to-end shipment coordination for inbound and outbound logistics activities.

• Ensure all shipments are properly packaged, labelled, and dispatched in accordance with company standards and regulatory requirements.

• Work closely with warehouse and other related functional teams to ensure safe handling, storage, and transportation of goods.

• Monitor shipment status from origin to final delivery, proactively resolving delays, discrepancies, or operational issues.

4. Stakeholder & Vendor Management

• Collaborate cross-functionally with commercial, production, procurement, finance, warehouse, Quality, EHS and other functional teams to ensure smooth execution of logistics activities.

• Manage relationships with freight forwarders, customs brokers, transport providers, and other logistics vendors.

• Evaluate vendor performance and service quality to support continuous improvement initiatives.

5. Annual budgeting, Cost Control & Logistics Analysis

• Support logistics budgeting, forecasting, cost tracking, and reporting activities to ensure effective cost control and support business planning.

• Review and manage freight costs, packaging costs, and overall logistics-related expenses.

• Monitor logistics spending, perform cost tracking and analysis, and identify opportunities for cost optimization.

• Oversee vendor billing verification and freight cost uploads into internal systems.

6. Audit, Reporting & Continuous Improvement

• Maintain accurate records and documentation to support customs audits, GST submissions, and compliance requirements.

• Conduct internal process reviews to identify operational gaps and drive process improvements.

• Develop and implement best practices to improve logistics efficiency, compliance, and service performance.

• Prepare logistics and compliance reports for management review.

7. Process Development, KPI Management & Continuous Improvement

• Drive the development, standardization, and continuous improvement of logistics processes and operational workflows to enhance efficiency, compliance, and service quality.

• Establish, monitor, and optimize logistics KPIs to improve operational performance, cost efficiency, delivery reliability, and compliance standards.

• Analyze operational data and performance metrics to identify process gaps and implement corrective and preventive improvement initiatives.

• Lead or support system enhancement, digitalization, and automation projects to improve operational accuracy, productivity, and reporting capabilities.

8. Leadership & Project Support

• Lead and support logistics team development through performance management, capability building, succession planning, and fostering a collaborative and high-performing team culture.

• Provide guidance, coaching, and training to team members on logistics procedures, compliance requirements, and operational best practices.

• Lead and support logistics-related projects, system enhancements, and process transformation initiatives.

• Support the operations and continuous improvement of logistics centers in Japan, Korea, and Australia, including but not limited to best practice sharing, project support, process alignment, and compliance audits; travel may be required for onsite communication and operational support.

9. Ad-hoc Tasks

• Perform additional duties and projects supports as assigned by management.

Qualifications & Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in supply chain, Logistics, Business Administration, or related discipline.

• 6 – 8+ years of practical experience in import/export logistics, customs compliance, or international freight operations, including 2–3 years in a managerial role leading a team of no fewer than 5 members.

• Cold chain experience in biotech, life sciences, or pharmaceutical sectors is an advantage.

• Strong knowledge of customs regulations, HS code classification, TradeNet / CrimsonLogic, GST, and international freight operations.

• Fluent in both English and Mandarin (written and spoken); capable of handling technical documents and contracts in English (as this role works closely with internal customers in China)

• Experience managing freight forwarders, customs brokers, and third-party logistics providers.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills.

• Proficient in Shipping or Transportation Management System, ERP systems and Microsoft Office applications.

• Excellent communication and coordination skills in a fast-paced environment.

• Open-minded and forward-thinking in adopting advanced technologies such as AI, automation, and digital tools, with a willingness to explore and apply them in day-to-day operational workflows.