International Import Manager

The Food Source International•Exton, PA

About The Position

The International Import Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing global supply chain operations, ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of goods across international borders. This role owns the development, execution, and delivery of a comprehensive import compliance manual that will establish the foundation of the company's import operations. The Manager will be a hands on to build and operate day-to-day import workflows, drive strategic logistics initiatives, manage international vendor relationships, and ensure adherence to global trade regulations and industry best practices. As the function matures, this role will transition into training, coaching, and managing the import logistics team to support scalable business growth.

Requirements

Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in international logistics, transportation, or supply chain management.
Demonstrated success in managing global logistics operations, negotiating with international vendors, and implementing process improvements.
Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.
Advanced knowledge of international logistics, customs, and trade compliance.
Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency with logistics software and ERP systems.
Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
Entrepreneurial mindset and adaptability to global business environments.
Ability to sit for extended periods, with occasional standing or walking.
Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing and handling documents.
Ability to operate a computer and standard office equipment. (e.g., phone, calculator, printer)
Ability to retain information and communicate information clearly and effectively.
Ability to visually observe details at close range.
Ability to travel internationally up to 10% as needed.
All employees are expected to follow company Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory policies as part of our commitment to safe and high-quality food ingredients.

Nice To Haves

Experience with food transportation and storage preferred.
Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) - APICS/ASCM
Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) - APICS/ASCM
Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) - International Society of Logistics (SOLE)
Certified International Logistics Manager (CILM) - AIBM
Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) - APICS/ASCM
SCPro Certification - Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
Project Management Professional (PMP) - PMI (for those managing large-scale projects)

Responsibilities

Global Logistics Strategy: Has authority to Develop and implement international logistics strategies and workflows that enhance operational efficiency, ensure shipment visibility, improve cost performance, and support global business expansion.
Import Compliance Manual Ownership: Develop, execute, and deliver a comprehensive import compliance manual outlining regulatory requirements, procedures, documentation standards, risk controls, and best practices to guide company-wide import activities.
Day-to-Day Import Operations: Establish, manage, and continuously improve daily import processes, including customs documentation, HS classification, compliance checks, broker coordination, carrier communication, and issue resolution.
Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all international logistics and import operations comply with applicable global trade laws, customs regulations, and relevant security and quality standards (including C-TPAT, ISO, FDA, USDA, and country-specific import rules).
Vendor & Carrier Management: Select, negotiate, and manage relationships with international freight forwarders, carriers, customs brokers, and 3PL partners. Ensure safe, timely, and cost-effective movement of goods.
Process Optimization: Leverage logistics management systems, data analytics, and continuous improvement methodologies to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.
Performance Monitoring: Develop, track, and analyze KPIs for global and import logistics operations, using insights to proactively enhance performance and service levels.
Transition to Leadership: Build and scale the import logistics department by developing SOPs, performance standards, and training programs. Lead the transition from a hands-on operational role to managing, coaching, and developing a high-performing team.
Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate logistics staff, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development.
Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks across international logistics and import compliance, including geopolitical, operational, regulatory, and security risks.
Budget Management: Prepare, manage, and monitor the global logistics budget, ensuring all logistics functions operate with financial discipline and cost-effectiveness.
Customer Focus: Ensure internal and external customer requirements are met, maintaining exceptional service standards and enabling seamless cross-departmental communication.
Technology & Systems Enablement: Evaluate, implement, and optimize technology solutions that enhance import visibility, compliance accuracy, communication, and end-to-end logistics efficiency.