Head of Import and Export

Job Title: Head of Import and Export

Department: Import and Export

Reports to: General Manager/Deputy GM/Operations Manager

Duty Station: Addis Ababa, Head Office

Employment Type: Full-Time

Job Summary

The Head of Import and Export oversees the compay’s entire import/export processes, from procurment and logistics to customs clearance and delivery. Responsibilities include strategic planning to optimize costs, mitigate risks, and support business growth in Ethiopia’s trading landscape. Sucess in this position drives seamless cross-border trade for Soreti Interantiona Trading.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage end – to – end import/export operations, including coordination with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and shipping agencies.
• Ensure full compliance with Ethiopian Customs laws, international trade regulations (e.g., INCOTERMS), and documentation like bills of loading and permits.
• Negotaite contracts, rates, and terms with suppliers, carriers, and partners to reduce costs and improve efficiency.
• Conduct market analysis risk assessments, and contingency planning for disruptions such as delays or regulatory changes.
• Lead the import/export team, providing training and performance oversight while collaborating with procurment, sales, finance, and other departments.
• Maintain records, generate reports on shipments and finances, and stay updated on trade trends in East Africa.

Qualification and Experinience

• Bachelor’s degree in International Business, Supply Chain Managment, Logistics, or related field; Master’s preferred.
• Sevent to Ten (7 – 10) years in import/export operations, with at least 3 – 5 years in a leadership role, ideally in manufacturing or  trading companys.
• Strong knowledge of Ethiopian import/export procedures, including EIC (Ethiopian Investment Commission ) regulations and foreign exchange rules.

Required Key Skills and Knowledge

• Strong understanding of Ethiopian and international trade laws, customs regulations, INCOTERMS, and documentation (e.g., bills of loading, Commercial invoices)
• Proficiency ERP Systems, in logistics softawre, MS Office (especially Excel), import/export software, and trade documentation processes.
• Excellent negotiotion, analytical, and problem-solving skills with a detail-oriented approch.
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed, with fluency in English, Afaan Oromo nad Amharic.
• Ability to manage teams and coordinate with frieght forwarders, brokers, and authorities.

Preferred Attributes

• Experience in Ethiopia’s import/export sector, particularly with goods relevant to Soreti’s trading focus.
• Proven track records in cost  optimization and building international partnerships.
• Deep Knowledge of processes leading to company certifications is essential; for operations, familarity with obtaining Certificate of Confirmity (for regulated imports via Ministry of Trade and Regional Integration approved bodies), Pre-shipment Inspection Report, Import/Export Permits (via Ethiopian Single Window), and Customs Declarations.