Associate Director, Inbound Logistics

Four Hands•Austin, TX

About The Position

The Associate Director, Inbound Logistics leads Four Hands’ global transportation and trade compliance operations, ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and compliant movement of imported furniture from international suppliers to U.S. distribution centers. This role oversees ocean freight, drayage, and customs compliance, driving operational excellence while maintaining strong partnerships with freight forwarders, carriers, customs brokers, and internal teams.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in international logistics or transportation management, ideally within furniture, consumer goods, or retail import operations
Bachelor’s degree in Supply Chain, International Business, or a related field
Deep understanding of ocean freight, U.S. port operations, customs clearance, and inland distribution
Experienced in managing freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to ensure efficient and compliant operations
Strong knowledge of CBP regulations, HTS classification, valuation, and country of origin requirements
Skilled in analyzing data and managing cost and service trade-offs to drive performance and efficiency
Highly organized with strong communication skills and the ability to manage multiple imports, vendors, and priorities at once
Proficient with logistics and compliance systems such as TMS, ERP, ACE, ABI, or global trade management software (e.g., Descartes, Integration Point, SAP GTS)

Nice To Haves

Licensed U.S. Customs Broker a plus
Experience managing imports from Asia preferred

Responsibilities

Lead and coordinate all inbound shipments from international suppliers to U.S. entry ports, warehouses, and distribution centers
Oversee ocean freight and drayage operations to ensure on-time delivery while minimizing detention and demurrage costs
Manage container visibility and optimize routing, consolidation, and utilization to reduce landed costs
Develop and manage KPIs for logistics partners measuring on-time delivery, cost efficiency, and accuracy
Negotiate contracts and rates with carriers, forwarders, and drayage providers to achieve cost savings and service reliability
Oversee all U.S. import compliance activities including HTS classification, valuation, country of origin, marking, and documentation
Ensure accurate and compliant use of HTS codes, duty rates, and free trade program eligibility
Review and approve customs entry documentation prepared by brokers and freight forwarders
Monitor and resolve CBP requests, holds, inquiries, and penalties
Develop and maintain import compliance policies, procedures, and control frameworks aligned with U.S. Customs regulations and company objectives
Conduct internal audits and broker performance reviews to ensure accuracy and compliance consistency
Partner cross-functionally with Product Development, Origin Teams, Logistics, and Finance to align trade compliance strategies
Provide compliance support for new product introductions, design updates, and packaging changes that impact classification or labeling
Lead, coach, and develop a team of logistics coordinators and analysts
Other duties as assigned, in accordance with training and qualifications
Uphold the Core Values and be a valuable member of the Four Hands Team
Be open and honest
Reach for excellence
Act with responsibility
Value the whole person
Enjoy the journey
Lead and mentor team members ensuring efficient and effective operations
Set clear, measurable goals ensuring team accountability and focus
Foster communication and collaboration across the team, supporting innovation and the adoption of digital tools
Encourage individual growth through coaching, feedback, and development opportunities
Promote a mindset of continuous improvement by encouraging teams to reflect on performance
Support teams through organizational change by communicating clearly and maintaining transparency and empathy
Execute operational plans that align departmental goals with company priorities
Analyze market trends and performance data to inform decision-making and identify opportunities for growth