Lead Logistics Coordinator

Job Summary:

We are seeking a highly organized and experienced Logistics Lead to manage the end-to-end flow of our goods. This role is crucial for coordinating with freight forwarders, preparing customs documentation, and ensuring the timely and cost-effective movement of our products and components internationally. The ideal candidate will have a solid background in freight forwarding operations, strong attention to detail for customs compliance, and excellent communication skills to manage external relationships.

Key Responsibilities:

Freight Forwarding Operations:

• Coordinate and liaise with freight forwarders and carriers to book shipments and negotiate rates for both air and ocean freight.
• Select the most efficient and cost-effective shipping methods based on budget and delivery requirements.
• Monitor freight forwarder performance, tracking shipments from origin to destination. Manage and verify freight invoices, ensuring they align with agreed-upon rates and services.
• Resolve any operational issues with freight forwarders, such as delays, rerouting, or service failures.

Customs Documentation & Compliance:

• Prepare, review, and submit accurate customs documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, and bills of lading.
• Verify that all shipping documents are complete and consistent to prevent customs holds and penalties.
• Ensure compliance with all national and international import/export regulations.

Inventory Management & Data Entry:

• Maintain accurate inventory records and reconcile them with shipment details provided by freight forwarders.
• Enter and manage shipment data, including customs fees, duties, taxes, and freight costs, in the logistics management system.
• Generate and analyse reports on freight costs, transit times, and shipment status.

Communication and Problem-Solving:

• Serve as a primary point of contact for all freight forwarding and customs-related inquiries.
• Proactively identify and resolve issues with freight forwarders or customs authorities to prevent delays.
• Provide real-time updates to internal stakeholders and customers regarding shipment status.

Qualifications:
Education:

• A degree or certification in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is a plus.
• Experience: Proven experience in a freight forwarding or 3PL environment is highly desirable.
• Specific experience with international shipments and customs documentation is required.
• A minimum of 4 years of experience in a logistics, shipping, or related role.
  Technical Skills: Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel).
  Experience with a Warehouse Management System (WMS), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, or logistics software.
• Familiarity with freight forwarding software or platforms is an advantage.

Skills & Attributes:

• Strong attention to detail is paramount.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills for managing external relationships.
• Proven problem-solving and critical thinking abilities to manage complex supply chain issues.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.