Import Manager at Sungroupe Nigeria Limited

Department: Imports and Finance 
Reports To: GFC or as suggested by MD.

Purpose:

The Import Manager is responsible for overseeing the importation of goods and materials into Nigeria, ensuring compliance with all national and international regulations, and optimizing supply chain efficiency. This role requires a solid understanding of Nigerian import laws, Customs procedures, and trade documentation, as well as strong communication and coordination with Banks relationship team & Trade wing, suppliers, clearing agents, logistics partners, and government agencies.

Key Responsibilities:

• Import Planning & Coordination
  • Plan and manage the entire import process from supplier to the respective unit.
  • Liaise with Banks for the application of Form M and LC applications and issuance as per the terms of the supply.
  • In coordination with the units to forecast import needs for LC facilities.
  • Ensure appropriate reconciliation with Insurance companies on the utilization of the certificates issued at the time of establishment of Form M.
  • Clear understanding on handling Breakbulk vessels and vessel Chartering.
• Regulatory Compliance
  • Ensure full compliance with Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), NAFDAC, SON, and other relevant regulatory bodies.
  • Obtain necessary import permits (e.g. Form M, PAAR, SONCAP, NAFDAC permits).
  • Manage tariff classifications, HS codes, and import duties.
  • Oversee all Exports documentation as per ECOWAS terms.
• Documentation & Customs Clearance
  • Oversee the application of PAAR and other related documents and ensure timely availability of original documents for clearance of consignments.
  • Coordinate with clearing department to expedite Customs clearance and avoid demurrage.
  • Handle post-clearance documentation and reporting.
  • Maintain accurate records of all import transactions.
  • Review periodically reports on import volumes, costs, and supplier performance and share the same with the respective units.
  • Liaise with procurement, finance, and warehouse teams to align import schedules with business needs.
  • Resolve issues related to delays, damages, or discrepancies in shipments.
• Supplier & Vendor Management
  • Develop and maintain strong relationships with international shipping line, freight forwarders, and Customs brokers.
  • Evaluate and select shipping agents, ensuring best value and service and provide the feedback to supplier on selection of shipping line based on the product.
  • Negotiate contracts and shipping terms (Incoterms)
• Cost Management
  • Monitor import-related costs, including freight, duties, taxes, and demurrage charges.
  • Identify opportunities to reduce import costs and improve process efficiency.
  • Monitor duties, tariffs, and exchange rates to manage import budgets effectively.
• Risk Management
  • Identify risks associated with international trade and develop mitigation strategies.
  • Keep abreast of changes in trade policies, currency fluctuations, and geopolitical events affecting imports.
  • Updated information on LC terms and costs affecting the business.

Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, International Trade, Supply Chain Management, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in import/export or logistics, preferably in a managerial role.
• Strong knowledge of Nigerian import regulations, Customs procedures, and trade documentation.
• Proficiency in international shipping terms (Incoterms), HS codes, and trade finance instruments (LCs, etc.).
• Familiarity with platforms such as Nigeria Single Window, Trade Portal, and the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) import regulations.

Key Skills:

• Strong organizational and planning skills
• Excellent negotiation and communication abilities
• Attention to detail and strong documentation skills
• Proficiency in ERP systems knowledge is needed. Knowledge on Orion ERP functionality is an added advantage.
• Ability to manage multiple shipments and meet tight deadlines