Customs Affairs Manager – International Logistics

SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:

Customs Affairs Manager – International Logistics

Location: Kempton Park, Johannesburg (OR Tambo International Airport)
Industry: Global Logistics & Express Courier
Team: 3 Direct Reports | ±109 Indirect Reports

About the Role
A world-leading logistics organisation is seeking a dynamic Customs Affairs Manager to drive legal and regulatory compliance, optimise operational efficiency, and lead a large, diverse team across customs and clearance operations.

This strategic leadership role sits at the heart of the organisation’s international gateway operations, ensuring compliance across Customs, SARS, CAA, AVSEC, Security, Labour, and HSE regulations — while fostering collaboration between local authorities, commercial partners, and internal teams.

You’ll be responsible for risk management, customs excellence, and team performance within one of the most operationally critical environments in South Africa’s logistics sector.

Key Responsibilities

• Ensure full legal and regulatory compliance across customs, aviation, safety, and security standards.

• Lead and inspire a large operations team (3 direct and 109 indirect reports) to deliver service excellence and continuous improvement.

• Oversee customs clearance, documentation, inspection, and bond management to minimise penalties and strengthen authority relationships.

• Develop and execute strategies for quality, risk management, and ISO/First Choice initiatives.

• Partner with external stakeholders including SARS, Customs, CAA, ACSA, SAPS, OHASA, and SAEPA.

• Drive cross-border operations (road and air) for BLNS countries, ensuring cost-effective and compliant clearances.

• Champion safety, security, and business continuity, in partnership with internal Security and Risk teams.

• Manage operational performance through KPIs, scorecards, and continuous process improvement.

• Build and develop a high-performing, motivated team culture based on accountability and collaboration.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, or related field.

• 5+ years senior management experience in a leading logistics or express multinational environment.

• Extensive knowledge of customs regulations, tariffs, and international trade compliance.

• Proven experience in airside operations and customs affairs leadership.

• Strong understanding of project and change management methodologies.

• Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills at all levels.

Ideal Candidate Profile

You are a confident and ethical leader with deep customs and regulatory knowledge, proven people management experience, and the ability to operate in a complex, high-volume logistics environment. You thrive on collaboration, compliance, and operational excellence — ensuring both people and processes perform at their best.

If you’re ready to lead a critical customs operation for a global logistics brand, apply now with your detailed CV.