Imports Coordinator at Bridge Talent Management

Job Purpose

The Imports Coordinator will be responsible for managing the end-to-end importation and customs clearance process to ensure timely, compliant, and cost-effective delivery of goods. This role requires a hands-on professional with solid experience in customs documentation, regulatory coordination, and clearance execution. The successful candidate must be capable of independently managing shipments while ensuring full compliance with statutory and customs requirements.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage the full importation process from receipt of shipping documents to final customs clearance and cargo release.
• Process and lodge Import Declaration Forms (IDFs) through KenTrade and ICMS systems accurately and within required timelines.
• Prepare, review, and verify all shipping documentation including Bills of Lading, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Certificates of Origin, and relevant permits.
• Ensure correct HS code classification, customs valuation, and accurate duty and tax calculations.
• Calculate shipment insurance and landed cost components to ensure proper financial planning and compliance.
• Monitor customs entries, follow up on duty assessments, and respond promptly to valuation queries or compliance issues.
• Liaise directly with regulatory and statutory bodies, including KRA, KEBS, KEPHIS, Kenya Dairy Board, Pharmacy and Poisons Board, Kenya Radiation Protection Board, Kenya Veterinary Board, Nairobi City County, and other relevant authorities, to secure approvals, inspections, permits, and compliance documentation, with prior hands-on experience required.
• Manage KEBS ISM sticker calculations and coordination where applicable.
• Work closely with clearing agents, freight forwarders, and suppliers to track shipment status and ensure timely clearance to avoid demurrage and penalties.
• Maintain accurate import records and documentation for audit and regulatory purposes.
• Stay updated on changes in customs regulations, duty structures, exemptions, and trade agreements that may impact import operations.

Requirements

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree or Diploma in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 4–6 years’ practical experience in importation and customs clearance.
• Mandatory prior experience working in a clearing house or directly handling customs declarations.
• Strong working knowledge of ICMS and KenTrade systems.
• Solid understanding of tariff classification, customs valuation, and duty calculation.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to manage multiple shipments within strict timelines.
• Membership with the Kenya Institute of Supply Chain Management (KISM) is desirable and will be considered an added professional credential.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Practical, execution-driven, and capable of independently managing clearance processes.
• Understands customs procedures beyond basic documentation.
• Confident engaging regulatory authorities directly.
• Proactive, detail-oriented, and accountable with minimal supervision