About the position
IKEA has centralized operations for import/export purposes in Customs Operations Support Centers (COSC). This position will be to facilitate efficiency and control of the import/export operations assigned to the Americas. The centralized activities include, but are not limited to handling of customs related certificates and documents, customs entry writing and validation activities, import clearance monitoring, control and payment of customs and brokerage bills as well as post entry controls. In addition, the Support Centers provide audit, process development support.
Responsibilities
- Preparation of Customs Entries: Utilize in-house systems to prepare customs entries for transmission to external service providers, overseeing the clearance process for both import and export entries in the assigned country.
- Daily Analysis and Validation of Import Documentation: Review import documentation and data daily to ensure compliance with Import laws and regulations before submitting entries to the Broker for Customs Authorities clearance, ensuring timely release.
- Management of Customs Security Filings (ISF): Oversee ISF filings in accordance with internal procedures and current customs regulations.
- Identification and Resolution of Inaccuracies: Promptly identify and address inaccuracies and deviations to ensure compliance and facilitate timely clearance.
- Ensuring Compliance in Customs Declarations: Ensure compliance in every customs declaration, conducting analysis, investigations, and resolutions as needed to ensure entry compliance and timely clearance.
- Collaboration with Stakeholders: Collaborate closely with other IKEA units, external service providers, and authorities to deliver a high level of service, especially in instances where IKEA standards are not met.
- Continuous Process Improvement: Contribute to ongoing development and enhancement of processes, including performing gap analyses to identify areas for improvement.
- Regulatory Compliance and Knowledge Maintenance: Maintain competence and knowledge of regulations, ensuring complete compliance with all legal requirements and corporate policies and procedures for imports into North and South America, while staying informed about the information used in system applications.
- Issue Resolution and SOP Updating: Respond to Broker requests, resolve operational issues, handle incidents, and update standard operating procedures to maintain efficiency and compliance.
- Goal Achievement and Support: Ensure personal and departmental goals are met, while providing support to local partners in the countries you work with.
Requirements
- A university degree or equivalent work experience is required.
- Three or more years of experience in a Customs brokerage environment is advantageous.
- Possession of a Customs Brokerage License is beneficial.
- Experience in logistics or supply chain is preferred.
- Demonstrated proficiency in clear documentation and communication regarding manuals and working methods is important.
- Strong analytical, interpersonal, organizational, and problem-solving skills are essential.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office tools (Excel, Word, Access) at an intermediate or advanced level is required.
- The ability to work independently while contributing effectively to the team is necessary.
- Effective troubleshooting and communication skills, both verbally and in writing, with stakeholders and foreign counterparts are important.
