Job Description
Description Position Summary The International Inbound Logistics Manager oversees all global inbound transportation activities that support the movement of goods from international suppliers to U.S. manufacturing and distribution facilities. This role ensures shipments are executed efficiently, cost-effectively, and in full compliance with import regulations, food safety standards, and cold chain requirements.
The ideal candidate has a strong background in international logistics, import operations, and temperature-controlled freight, with a deep understanding of the food and beverage supply chain.
Key Responsibilities Global Transportation & Import Operations - Manage end-to-end international inbound shipments, including ocean, air, and cross-border freight.
- Oversee import documentation, customs clearance, and regulatory compliance (FDA, USDA, FSMA, CBP).
- Ensure all inbound materials - especially temperature-sensitive food ingredients - maintain cold chain integrity during transit and customs handling.
- Coordinate delivery schedules with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and domestic transportation teams.
- Maintain visibility of all international shipments using Transportation Management Systems (TMS) and tracking platforms.
Carrier, Freight Forwarder & Supplier Management - Select and manage international carriers, NVOCCs, and freight forwarders to ensure competitive pricing, reliable performance, and compliance with service-level agreements.
- Negotiate global freight contracts and rate agreements for ocean and air shipments.
- Partner with suppliers and export agents to ensure accurate documentation (commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, temperature logs, etc.).
- Evaluate partner performance using KPIs such as on-time delivery, customs clearance time, and freight claims.
Regulatory Compliance & Documentation - Ensure adherence to all international trade laws, food import regulations, and labeling requirements.
- Work closely with internal compliance teams and external customs brokers to prevent clearance delays and mitigate risk.
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of trade compliance regulations (HTS classifications, Incoterms, import tariffs, and FDA Prior Notice requirements).
Cross-Functional Collaboration - Collaborate with procurement, quality assurance, and production planning teams to align import logistics with manufacturing demand.
- Communicate proactively with internal stakeholders regarding shipment status, delays, and potential disruptions.
- Support new supplier onboarding by defining inbound logistics requirements and documentation standards.
Data Analysis & Continuous Improvement - Monitor and report on international freight costs, transit times, and performance metrics.
- Identify and implement cost savings and efficiency improvements through network optimization, mode selection, and consolidation programs.
- Lead continuous improvement projects to reduce lead times and improve inbound visibility.
Leadership - Lead, train, and mentor a team of logistics specialists or import coordinators.
- Promote a culture of operational excellence, accountability, and compliance.
- Drive adherence to food safety and sustainability standards throughout the international logistics network.
Qualifications - Education: Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, International Business, Logistics, or related field (Master's preferred).
- Experience:
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- 7+ years of logistics or supply chain management experience, with at least 3 years in international inbound operations.
- Prior experience in the food and beverage industry or temperature-controlled logistics required.
- Technical Skills:
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- Strong knowledge of global trade compliance, import/export documentation, and Incoterms.
- Proficiency with Transportation Management Systems (TMS), ERP software (SAP, Oracle, etc.), and Excel.
- Understanding of ocean and air freight logistics, cold chain management, and customs processes.
- Soft Skills:
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- Strong leadership, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration skills.
- Negotiation and problem-solving ability in time-sensitive environments.
- Analytical mindset with attention to detail and cost control.
- Preferred Certifications:
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- Customs Broker License, IATA/FIATA certification, APICS CSCP/CLTD, or Lean Six Sigma Green Belt.
- Food Safety or HACCP certification a plus.
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