Job Description

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced

French-Speaking Import/Export Manager

to join our dynamic team. This critical role involves overseeing the seamless flow of goods into and out of various African regions, requiring close collaboration with Logistics, Procurement, and Project Management teams. The ideal candidate will be fluent in French and possess a deep understanding of international trade regulations, particularly those relevant to African markets.

Key Responsibilities

1. Trade Compliance & Documentation:

Manage and ensure compliance with all international trade laws, customs regulations, and import/export procedures for goods entering and exiting African regions. Prepare, review, and maintain all necessary shipping documentation, including invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, bills of lading, and customs declarations. Ensure accurate Harmonized System (HS) code classification for all products.
2.

In-Country Regulatory Mapping & Permitting:

Conduct in-country visits/travel as necessary to government and regulatory bodies to secure crucial import/export permits, licenses, and documentation.

Proactively map and document the complete entry process for target African countries, including but not limited to:

Identifying required

Import Permits

and application procedures. Securing necessary

Environmental Permits

(where applicable). Managing applications for

Tax Exemptions,

Free Trade Area documentation, and other fiscal incentives. Establishing clear steps for other relevant regulatory clearances. Maintain a comprehensive and up-to-date repository of country-specific import/export requirements, taxes, and duties.
3. Logistics & Supply Chain Coordination:

Work closely with the Logistics team to plan and optimize transportation routes and methods (sea, air, road) to ensure timely and cost-effective delivery. Coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, customs brokers, and third-party logistics providers. Monitor the status of shipments and proactively resolve transit issues or delays.
4. Procurement & Project Support:

Collaborate with the Procurement team to align sourcing strategies with import/export requirements, focusing on lead times and compliance. Provide expertise on the importability of goods early in the procurement cycle to prevent compliance issues or delays. Serve as the primary point of contact for project teams regarding all shipping and customs-related inquiries for specific initiatives.
Required Qualifications

Fluency in French (written and spoken) is mandatory

due to the requirement to communicate with partners and regulatory bodies in Francophone African countries. Proven experience (X years) as an Import/Export Manager, Trade Compliance Specialist, or similar role.

Demonstrable hands-on experience securing regulatory permits, licenses, and tax exemptions in African nations.

In-depth knowledge of customs regulations, INCOTERMS, HS Classification, and international shipping documentation. Exceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills. Proficiency in MS Office Suite and experience with ERP/supply chain management software. Ability and willingness to travel frequently to African regions to manage regulatory processes in person.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Freelance

Pay: From 50,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person