Commercial Manager - Import and Export

Commercial Manager (Import / Export)

Company: Company Name Withheld

Location: Rathmalana

Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced Commercial Manager (Import / Export) to join a leading and diversified business group with a strong presence across multiple industries. This role is responsible for overseeing end-to-end import and export operations, ensuring timely customs clearance, accurate trade documentation, regulatory compliance, and cost-effective logistics coordination. The ideal candidate will have strong expertise in Sri Lanka Customs, BOI processes, LC handling, shipping coordination, and international trade operations, with the ability to drive operational efficiency and minimise commercial risks and delays.

Job Profile:

• Manage end-to-end import and export operations, ensuring timely and compliant movement of raw materials, machinery, and finished goods.
• Prepare, review, and coordinate import and export documentation, including CUSDECs, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Certificates of Origin, and other regulatory requirements.
• Manage Letter of Credit (LC) documentation and coordinate with banks to ensure timely and accurate processing.
• Ensure compliance with Sri Lanka Customs, BOI requirements, HS codes, Incoterms 2020, and other applicable trade regulations.
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, clearing agents, shipping lines, and other service providers for shipment planning, customs clearance, tracking, and issue resolution.
• Monitor vessel schedules, container movements, cargo handling, and local deliveries to ensure smooth and timely shipment execution.
• Oversee customs clearance processes, including duty payments, permits, licences, and related regulatory requirements.
• Monitor and control freight, demurrage, detention, duty, clearing, and other commercial charges to optimise logistics costs.
• Negotiate rates and commercial terms with freight forwarders, shipping lines, clearing agents, and other relevant vendors.
• Maintain accurate electronic and physical records of shipments, customs clearances, duties, permits, licences, and trade compliance documentation.
• Prepare and share regular reports on shipment lead times, cost variances, pending clearances, and compliance performance.
• Identify and implement improvements in routing, cargo consolidation, customs clearance, and commercial processes to reduce costs and minimise delays.
• Coordinate proactively with internal stakeholders and external parties to ensure uninterrupted supply chain operations.

Person Profile:

• Bachelor's Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or a related field.
• Professional qualifications such as CILT, CIM, or recognised import/export certifications will be an added advantage.
• Minimum 8 - 10 years of hands-on experience in import/export operations, preferably within a manufacturing or industrial environment.
• Strong knowledge of Sri Lanka Customs procedures, BOI processes, ASYCUDA World, LC handling, HS codes, and Incoterms 2020.
• Sound understanding of trade finance, bonded warehouse procedures, duty structures, and international trade regulations.
• Proven experience in coordinating with freight forwarders, shipping lines, clearing agents, banks, and government regulatory authorities.
• Excellent negotiation, vendor management, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• High level of accuracy and attention to detail in documentation and compliance.
• Ability to work effectively under tight deadlines in a fast-paced commercial environment.

If interested, Please apply to: talentaccompany.lk@gmail.com