Ocean Import Manager

KSI Trading Corp•Mechanicsville, VA

1d•$90,000 - $130,000•Hybrid

About The Position

The Ocean Import Manager will coordinate and serve as the main point of contact for all inbound freight, managing the process from origin to final delivery. This role owns carrier and RFP management, container tracking, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation, while providing exceptional service to internal stakeholders and Distribution Centers.

Requirements

5+ years of Ocean Import experience, or in a similar role
Experience in International Logistics and Supply Chain
Working knowledge of HTS classification, tariff schedules, and import regulatory compliance.
MS Excel skills and knowledge (advanced level of understanding or above), and strong working knowledge of MS Word and other M365 apps
Proactive approach with high standards, sound judgment, and strong attention to detail
Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, and multi-tasking skills
Ability to deliver accurate, consistent information under time pressure.
Ability to adapt quickly to changing business and environmental conditions

Nice To Haves

Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred, but not mandatory with equivalent work experience.

Responsibilities

Coordinate and manage the timely movement of inbound ocean freight, serving as the primary point of contact for the Import department
Own container scheduling, consolidation, tracking, and reporting
Review ETA information daily and provide proactive alerts when delays are expected
Manage daily reporting and other data entry activities in an accurate and timely manner, to ensure that the import database is kept updated
Manage risk across the import supply chain, including port delays, carrier disruptions, and compliance exposure
Monitor industry and market trends and analyze data to prepare forecasts and get ahead of potential import risks; present findings and recommendations to key stakeholders
Coordinate the release of goods from customs, carriers, and government agencies, ensuring all holds are cleared prior to discharge and containers are released from the Distribution Centers within carrier allotted free time
Identify problem shipments early and coordinate resolution and implementation of solutions with internal and external stakeholders
Build and strengthen relationships with carriers, suppliers, and freight forwarders to improve pricing, service levels, and reliability
Manage the RFP process and annual carrier contract reviews, including rate negotiation, proposal development, and recommendations to senior leadership
Oversee seized inventory and determine to keep or discard; suggest appropriate actions to the leadership team and coordinate accordingly
Complete Importer Security Filings (ISF) when required, and review/submit import documentation to customs brokers for ocean and air shipments
Maintain regulatory compliance knowledge, including Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification and tariff/trade policy changes affecting landed cost
Review and approve invoices from brokers, carriers, and truckers in a timely manner
Direct communication with Purchasing Team to align on domestic freight tracking
Coordinate with our Taipei, Taiwan office regarding space usage and shipment planning
Work closely with transportation providers to confirm shipping space, ETAs, routing, port releases, delivery appointments, and empty container returns
Maintain knowledge of KSI services and products, and assume other duties as assigned as business needs change