North America International Shipping Manager

Job Title

Job Description

Title: North America International Shipping Manager

Job Summary

The North America International Shipping Manager is responsible for overseeing and optimizing all North America global shipping operations, ensuring full compliance with international trade regulations, and leading a high-performing team of logistics professionals. This role drives the timely, cost-effective, and compliant movement of goods across international borders while continuously improving processes and operational efficiency.

Key Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Management

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of shipping managers and freight forwarding professionals
• Set performance goals, conduct evaluations, and provide ongoing coaching and feedback
• Oversee staffing, scheduling, and workload distribution
• Foster a culture of accountability, safety, and continuous improvement

International Shipping Operations

• Oversee daily international shipping activities across air, ocean, and ground transportation
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of all shipping documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, and certificates of origin
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers
• Monitor shipments and proactively resolve delays, damage, or compliance issues

Compliance & Regulatory Management

• Ensure adherence to international trade regulations, including customs laws, export controls, and sanctions programs
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of global import/export requirements
• Oversee product classification (HS codes), valuation, and country-of-origin determinations
• Support internal and external audits and ensure proper recordkeeping practices

Cost Control & Vendor Management

• Partner with Category Management on carrier rate negotiations and contract management
• Analyze shipping costs and identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency gains
• Evaluate vendor performance and maintain strong strategic relationships

Process Improvement & Reporting

• Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce errors
• Track and report on key performance indicators (KPIs), including on-time delivery, shipping costs, and customs clearance timelines
• Prepare performance reports and insights for senior leadership

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Collaborate closely with Sales, Project Management, Warehouse, and Supply Chain teams
• Support international customers with shipping timelines and documentation requirements
• Partner with Finance on duties, taxes, and invoicing-related matters

Qualifications - Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, Logistics, Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience)
• 5–8+ years of experience in international shipping or logistics
• 2–3+ years of people management experience

Skills & Knowledge

• Strong understanding of international shipping regulations and Incoterms
• Experience working with ERP and Transportation Management Systems (TMS)
• Proven leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and reporting tools

Preferred

• Customs brokerage license or related certifications (e.g., CCS, familiarity with CTPAT)
• Experience with global trade compliance systems

Key Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Strategic thinking and execution
• Strong attention to detail
• Decision-making under pressure
• Negotiation and vendor management skills

Work Environment

• Combination of office and warehouse settings
• Occasional travel and coordination across multiple time zones may be required