Shipping and Customs Manager

SUMMARY:
Our client is a growing international organization within the food and beverage sector, seeking an experienced Shipping & Customs Manager to oversee international shipments, customs compliance and freight operations.
This hands-on role will coordinate with internal teams and external logistics partners to ensure shipments are planned, compliant, cost-effective and delivered on time.

POSITION INFO:
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES Coordinate and oversee the planning and execution of international shipments. Arrange freight bookings with shipping lines, freight forwarders and transport providers. Coordinate loading and dispatch requirements with warehouse and operational teams. Ensure shipments are fully prepared and operationally ready within agreed timelines. Manage customs clearance processes and ensure compliance with applicable South African customs requirements. Ensure appropriate tariff classifications, permits and supporting customs documentation are in place. Review shipping and customs documentation for accuracy and completeness. Liaise with freight forwarders, customs clearing agents, transport providers and other logistics partners. Identify and resolve shipment, freight and customs-related issues that could impact delivery. Work closely with Customer Service, Warehouse, Transport, Finance and Quality teams to ensure an efficient shipment process. Monitor and manage exceptions, delays and operational challenges. Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the international logistics function. Assess freight and routing options with consideration of cost, lead time, service levels and operational risk. Review freight quotations and logistics costs and identify potential cost-saving opportunities. Provide commercial input into international shipping, customs and logistics decisions. Balance customer requirements and delivery commitments against cost and operational feasibility. Maintain strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, International Trade or a related discipline. Minimum 5 years' relevant experience within shipping, customs, freight forwarding or international logistics. Strong working knowledge of South African customs procedures and SARS requirements. Understanding of HS tariff classifications and customs compliance. Proven experience dealing with freight forwarders, shipping lines and customs clearing agents. Strong organizational, planning and coordination abilities. Excellent problem-solving and decision-making skills. Strong communication and stakeholder management capabilities. Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office. Experience working on SAP would be advantageous. Exposure to manufacturing , FMCG, food or beverage environment would be beneficial. To apply, please send your CV with your salary expectations to Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should you not receive feedback within 48 hours, please accept your application as unsuccessful. Persona Staff (Pty) Ltd is POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act, 2013) compliant, all personal information is protected according to legislation. By applying for any of our available vacancies, you give Persona Staff consent to process your Personal Information for Recruitment Purposes, according to the POPI ACT, 2013. If you have any concerns regarding your Personal Information and our compliance towards the legislation, you are welcome to request our POPI Act Policy.