Job Description

The Customs and Import Officer position is responsible for making sure that the organization's Lubricants Supply Chain (LSC) operations meet the KPIs from a customer and cost perspective, and make base oils additives and finished goods as per forecast and stocking policy.

The Lubricants supply chain is on an excellence journey to support accelerated growth plans, with an enhanced focus on customer centricity and enabling associated technology. Planning and sourcing competitively is key to enabling these growth plans as we strive to become more competitive with the post-divestment landscape.

The Customs and Imports Officer is responsible for overseeing and managing all aspects of the import process, ensuring strict compliance with all Pakistan and international customs laws, regulations, and trade agreements. This role involves coordinating with suppliers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers to facilitate the timely and efficient movement and clearance of goods across borders while minimizing duty costs and risks. High interface with plant operations and logistics is also needed to create the storage space to place items safely.

Reporting

This position will report to the LSC Logistic Manager.

Principal Accountabilities: -

• Compliance Management: Ensure all import operations adhere to applicable customs regulations, trade laws, tariffs, and government requirements. Stay updated on changes in import regulations and trade policies (e.g. Wafi MOA and import regulations)
• Documentation Handling: Prepare, review, and submit accurate and complete import documentation, including commercial invoices, bills of lading, packing lists, certificates of origin, and customs and KPT declarations . Whilst import agents are there, it is the duty of the Officer to know and direct the agency for achieving best outcomes for Wafi
• Logistics Coordination: Coordinate with Shell and other Base oil suppliers, additive suppliers Shell’s export Hubs like SMME and SLSC and arrange for more than 40 + shipments per month. The chain also includes international suppliers, freight forwarders, and customs brokers to manage the end-to-end import process, from shipment to customs clearance and final delivery at Karachi Port.
• Shipment Monitoring: Track and monitor shipment statuses, proactively identifying and resolving any delays, issues, or discrepancies with transportation or customs officials.
• Duty and Tax Management: Verify the correct application of import duty tariff codes with agency and work closely with Wafi Finance Operations team and ensure accurate calculation and payment of all customs duties, taxes, and fees to minimize exposure.
• Record Keeping and Auditing: Maintain meticulous import records and files for all transactions as required by law. Conduct regular internal audits of imported documentation and processes to ensure ongoing compliance.
• Stakeholder Communication: Serve as a primary point of contact for customs authorities, KPT and internal departments (e.g., procurement, finance, sales) to ensure seamless communication and alignment of import strategies with business objectives.
• Process Improvement: Identify opportunities for process improvements, implement best practices, and develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) to enhance the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of import operations.

Key Challenges: -

• Candidate needs to navigate both legal, fiscal, operational issues and financial analysis.
• Balances between business requirements and limited import resources with an eye on delivery of Lubricants T&R
• Strong collaboration and influencing skills would be required to drive desired changes with broad scope of stakeholders (LSC Function, Finance, Contracting & Procurement, Suppliers, Customer Operations & Sales).

Qualifications and Skills

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in supply chain management, Logistics, International Business, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Experience: Minimum of [2-5] years of experience in import/export operations, customs clearance, or freight forwarding.
• Knowledge: In-depth knowledge of customs regulations, import procedures
• Computer Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (especially Excel for data analysis) and experience with ERP systems (SAP/S4) and import/export management software.
• Soft Skills:
  • Exceptional attention to detail and strong organizational skills.
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to liaise effectively with diverse stakeholders.
  • Team player and ability to influence without authority.
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.
  • Maintain confidentiality and enforce the same with partners due to de regulated nature of lubricants products

Work location: Lubricants Oil Blending Plant, Kemari