Imports Specialist at Cosmos Limited

Job Summary:

• The Imports Specialist will be responsible for managing the import processes in compliance with customs and government regulations, ensuring that they are carried out effectively and efficiently, optimizing, scheduling and tracking of incoming shipments/airfreights and providing timely reports to the departmental head for informed decision making. Duties/Responsibilities:
• Strategic Transport Planning
• Analyze, plan, and implement effective import logistics strategies that support business needs while minimizing costs and delays.
• Import/Export Documentation & Compliance
• Process imports and export documentation through government platforms, ensure timely payment of customs duties/levies, and maintain full compliance with regulatory requirements.
• Ensure accuracy and completeness in documentation to avoid penalties or delays.
• Exemptions & Regulatory Follow-Up
• Prepare and submit documentation for duty and tax exemption applications (KRA, PPB, VMD), and ensure timely follow-up for approvals.
• Supplier & Freight Management
• Negotiate with transporters, warehouse operators, and freight solution providers for optimal service and pricing. Build and maintain strong supplier relationships.
• Industry Intelligence & Strategy
• Monitor global and local supply chain trends and integrate key insights into departmental strategies and operations. 6. Shipment Tracking & Expediting
• Schedule, track, and follow up on shipments to ensure timely delivery and supplier compliance with agreed timelines.
• Efficiency & Cost Control
• Provide timely documentation to minimize demurrage and delays at customs.
• Calculate landed costs, monitor cost drivers like demurrage, and report monthly to management.
• Customs & AEO Reporting
• Prepare and submit the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) report and other statutory documentation as required.
• Serve as the primary contact for KRA and customs, ensuring the company stays up to date with all policies, licenses, and restrictions. 9. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Required Skills/Abilities:

• Excellent communication skills.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• High productivity, reliable attendance, attention to quality, ability to learn new skills.
• Strong skills in organising and prioritizing work
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and able to meet tight deadlines.
• Excellent interpersonal and project management skills.
• Computer Literacy Le. Ms. Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access etc.

Education and Experience:

• A Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business, or a related field.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in import/export operations, preferably in a regulated or manufacturing industry.
• Strong knowledge of customs procedures, documentation (IDF, COC, etc.), and duty exemption processes.
• Excellent negotiation and supplier relationship management skills.
• Proficiency in using government trade portals (eg, ICMS, Simba System, etc.).
• Sharp analytical and reporting skills with a focus on cost control and compliance.