Senior Import Officer Job Description 

Job Title: Senior Import Officer

Job Summary

The Senior Import Officer is responsible for managing and coordinating all import activities in compliance with Ethiopian laws and regulations. The role ensures timely procurement, customs clearance, foreign currency processing, and proper documentation of imported goods.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

1. Import Planning & Coordination

• Plan and manage import schedules based on organizational needs

• Coordinate with suppliers, freight forwarders, and internal departments

• Monitor shipment progress and ensure timely delivery

2. Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Ethiopian import regulations, including directives from the Ethiopian Customs Commission

• Follow National Bank procedures for foreign currency approvals through the National Bank of Ethiopia

• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of import laws, tariffs, and restrictions

3. Documentation Management

• Prepare and review import documents such as:

  • Proforma Invoice

  • Commercial Invoice

  • Packing List

  • Bill of Lading / Airway Bill

  • Certificate of Origin

  • Insurance documents

• Ensure accuracy and completeness of all import documentation

4. Customs Clearance Process

• Liaise with customs clearing agents for timely clearance of goods

• Follow up on customs declarations, duty payments, and inspections

• Resolve customs-related issues and delays

5. Foreign Procurement & Forex Handling

• Process import permits and letters of credit (LC)

• Coordinate with banks for foreign currency allocation

• Track payments and ensure compliance with forex regulations

6. Cost Control & Reporting

• Monitor import costs (freight, duty, insurance, bank charges)

• Prepare cost analysis and variance reports

• Recommend cost-saving strategies

7. Vendor & Stakeholder Management

• Maintain relationships with international suppliers and logistics providers

• Evaluate supplier performance and negotiate terms

• Coordinate with finance, warehouse, and procurement teams

8. Record Keeping & Audit Support

• Maintain proper filing of import records for audit purposes

• Support internal and external audits

• Ensure compliance with company policies and IFRS requirements

Job Requirements

Qualifications & Requirements

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Accounting, or related field

• Master’s degree is an advantage

Experience

• Minimum 3-5 years of experience in import/export operations

• Experience in Ethiopian customs procedures and forex systems is required

Skills

• Strong knowledge of import regulations and customs procedures

• Familiarity with LC processing and banking procedures

• Excellent negotiation and communication skills

• Good analytical and reporting ability

• Proficiency in ERP systems and Microsoft Office

 

Key Competencies

• Attention to detail

• Problem-solving ability

• Time management

• Integrity and compliance focus

Leadership and team coordination

How To Apply

Interested and Qualified candidates can apply using email abebemulugetajob2018@gmail.com

Job Requirements The role requires a bachelor’s degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Accounting or a related field; a master’s degree is advantageous. Candidates must have 3‑5 years of experience in import/export operations, including Ethiopian customs procedures and forex systems. How to Apply Submit your non-returnable application and CV along with supporting documents in Via email abebemulugetajob2018@gmail.com