Job Title: Senior Manager Imports

Location: Bengaluru

Position Summary

The Logistics Manager – Imports will be responsible for end-to-end management of import logistics operations for merchandise sourced globally. This role involves handling shipment planning, documentation, customs clearance, vendor coordination, and optimizing logistics costs and timelines to align with the company’s seasonal buying and launch schedules.

Key Responsibilities

1. Import Operations Management

• Manage and oversee all import and export shipments of apparel, footwear, and accessories from international vendors.

• Plan shipment schedules in coordination with the Buying and Merchandising teams to meet season launch timelines.

• Liaise with freight forwarders, consolidators, and shipping lines for both sea and air shipments.

• Track all shipments in transit and ensure timely clearance and delivery to central warehouses or distribution centers.

• Manage logistics for time-sensitive collections, limited editions, and promotional launches.

• Ensure 100% claim of FTA benefits

• Work with buying team and factories to fonaluse and update HSN codes

2. Documentation & Customs Compliance

• Prepare, verify, and maintain import documentation — including invoices, packing lists, airway bills, bills of lading, and certificates of origin.

• Ensure smooth customs clearance by coordinating with Customs House Agents (CHAs) and compliance teams.

• Monitor adherence to Indian import regulations, DGFT norms, and product-specific compliance (e.g., textile labeling, footwear standards, etc.).

• Maintain updated records of import licenses, duty payments, and relevant certifications for audits.

3. Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination

• Coordinate with global suppliers, freight forwarders, and internal departments to ensure smooth inbound logistics.

• Negotiate freight rates and contracts with shipping lines and logistics partners to optimize costs.

• Work closely with the Finance team on import duty estimation, cost allocation, and payment reconciliations.

• Collaborate with Quality and Warehouse teams to manage discrepancies, damage claims, or missing shipments.

4. Cost Control & Performance Optimization

• Monitor, analyze, and control logistics costs including freight, duties, and demurrage.

• Develop and implement strategies to reduce landed cost while maintaining service quality.

• Establish and monitor KPIs such as lead time adherence, customs clearance turnaround, and on-time warehouse delivery rates.

• Generate regular management reports and cost analysis summaries.

5. Risk & Compliance Management

• Identify and mitigate risks related to customs delays, documentation errors, or vendor non-compliance.

• Stay updated with trade regulations, duty structures, and Free Trade Agreements impacting fashion imports.

• Ensure all operations comply with internal audit standards and sustainability goals.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• On-time clearance and delivery of imports

• Import logistics cost per CBM/unit

• Meet global standard for capacity utilisation 

• Reduction in demurrage and detention charges

• Customs and documentation compliance rate

• Seasonal launch readiness (logistics alignment with product calendar)

Qualifications & Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, Logistics, or a related field. MBA preferred.

• Experience: 7–10 years in import logistics, with at least 3 years in the fashion, apparel, or retail industry.

Technical Skills:

• Strong understanding of Indian customs laws, DGFT policies, and import/export procedures.

• Proficiency in ERP systems (SAP, Oracle, etc.) and logistics tracking tools.

• Sound knowledge of Incoterms, HS Codes, and bonded warehouse operations.

• Soft Skills:

• Excellent communication, negotiation, and cross-functional coordination skills.

• Analytical mindset with strong problem-solving and organizational abilities.

• Ability to work under tight deadlines in a fast-paced retail environment.