Job Description

Import-Export & Procurement Specialist, Cotonou (Benin Republic)

Department: Operations

Employment Type: Permanent - Full Time

Location: Benin Republic

Description

Location: Cotonou, Benin Republic

About the Role:

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Import-Export & Procurement Specialist to oversee customs operations, logistics, and strategic procurement in Benin Republic. This role is essential for ensuring compliance, optimizing costs, and enhancing operational efficiency.

What you would be expected to do

1. Import-Export Operations & Customs Compliance

• Manage import and export flows across multiple countries (Benin, Togo, Burkina Faso, Ghana, etc.).
• Ensure full compliance with customs regulations and tariff classifications to mitigate risks.
• Handle customs and shipping documentation (certificates of origin, invoices, landing factors, transit and clearance documents).
• Collaborate with freight forwarders and customs authorities to streamline operations and negotiate duty exemptions when applicable.
• Monitor and optimize costs related to customs duties, incoterms, and insurance logistics.

1. Procurement & Vendor Management

• Manage the procurement of goods and services across all business operations (office equipment, operational supplies, external services, cleaning, shop insurance, IT equipment, branding, etc.).
• Manage the end-to-end procurement cycle, from supplier selection and contract negotiation to performance tracking.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize expenditure.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships, ensuring quality, reliability, and competitive pricing.
• Ensure all purchases comply with internal policies and regulatory requirements.

1. Performance Tracking & Process Optimization

• Develop dashboards and provide accurate reporting on procurement, logistics costs, and stock management.
• Implement process automation tools to improve purchasing and import-export operations.
• Work closely with finance, logistics, and marketing teams to enhance data integration and traceability.
• Manage new product introductions, ensuring compliance with customs regulations and potential exemptions.
• Oversee all import and export activities in alignment with customs requirements.

You might be a strong candidate if you;

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Procurement, Business Administration, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, import-export, or international logistics.
• Good knowledge of West African customs and tax procedures.
• Proven track record in strategic procurement and supplier negotiations.
• Proficiency in SAP (procurement, inventory, and logistics management).
• Good Excel skills (pivot tables, advanced data knowledge).
• In-depth knowledge of Incoterms, tariff classifications, and customs regulations.
• Experience in cost optimization and contract management.
• Fluency in French & English (written and spoken) is essential for managing supplier and partner relationships.
• Strategic mindset to identify process optimization opportunities.
• Attention to detail & compliance focus to prevent disputes and ensure regulatory adherence.
• Proactive & innovative approach to explore cost-saving strategies and duty exemptions.

What Sun King Offers

• Professional growth in a dynamic, rapidly expanding, high-social-impact industry
• An open-minded, collaborative culture made up of enthusiastic colleagues who are driven by the challenge of innovation towards profound impact on people and the planet.
• A truly multicultural experience: you will have the chance to work with and learn from people from different geographies, nationalities, and backgrounds.
• Structured, tailored learning and development programs that help you become a better leader, manager, and professional through the Sun Center for Leadership.