Job Purpose
To manage and streamline end-to-end logistics operations for domestic and international shipments, ensuring compliance with customs regulations, DGFT norms, GST exemptions/refunds, and INCOTERMS. The role requires expertise in FTWZ (Free Trade Warehousing Zone) handling, international packing standards, invoicing and waybill documentation, IE gate operations, and export/import procedures. The Assistant Manager - Logistics acts as a key coordinator between freight partners, customs authorities, and internal stakeholders to achieve timely, cost-effective, and compliant movement of goods while driving continuous improvement in logistics processes.
Key Responsibilities
1. Logistics Operations & FTWZ Handling
- Manage inbound and outbound logistics, including FTWZ operations for bonded storage, duty deferment, and re-export activities.
- Plan and execute freight bookings (air/sea/express) ensuring cost optimization and timely delivery.
- Coordinate with freight forwarders, CHAs, carriers, and suppliers for seamless shipment execution.
- Monitor shipment tracking, resolve delays, and ensure timely clearance and dispatch.
2. Import & Export Compliance
- Ensure adherence to customs regulations, HS code classification, DGFT norms, and INCOTERMS.
- Handle documentation for import/export including Bill of Entry, Shipping Bill, commercial invoices, and waybills.
- Manage DGFT-related activities such as Advance License, EPCG, and export incentives.
- Maintain compliance with international trade procedures and audit-ready documentation.
- Oversee IE gate handling for import/export cargo movement, ensuring compliance with port/airport procedures.
3. Invoice & Waybill Procedures
- Prepare and verify commercial invoices, packing lists, and waybills in line with customs and banking requirements.
- Ensure invoice accuracy for value, currency, HS code, and INCOTERMS compliance.
- Coordinate with finance and banks for invoice validation, payment terms, and export documentation.
- Maintain structured records of invoices and waybills for audits and statutory reporting.
4. Packing & Documentation Standards
- Define and implement packing procedures for imports and exports, including ISPM-15 compliance, fumigation, and palletization standards.
- Ensure proper labelling, barcoding, and documentation for international shipments.
- Establish packing guidelines to minimize transit damage and meet customer/regulatory requirements.
- Maintain structured documentation for customs, banks, and ISO audits.
5. Vendor & Stakeholder Coordination
- Liaise with suppliers, freight partners, and internal teams (Production, Planning, Finance, Quality) for logistics planning.
- Negotiate freight rates, contracts, and service agreements with logistics partners.
- Evaluate and onboard logistics service providers, ensuring performance against KPIs.
- Develop alternate logistics partners to mitigate risks and ensure business continuity.
6. Compliance, KPI & Continuous Improvement
- Ensure logistics operations comply with ISO 9001 and internal quality standards.
- Track and report logistics KPIs: Freight Cost, Transit Time, On-Time Delivery, Customs Clearance Lead Time.
- Drive continuous improvement initiatives in logistics processes, cost optimization, and service quality.
- Implement and sustain 5S practices in logistics operations and documentation.
Required Skills & Experience
- 8-10 years of experience in logistics, import/export operations, and supply chain management in manufacturing/engineering sectors.
- Strong knowledge of FTWZ handling, INCOTERMS, customs regulations, HS codes, DGFT norms, invoicing, waybill documentation, and international trade procedures.
- Experience in freight negotiation, logistics partner management, and packing compliance for exports/imports.
- ERP proficiency (SAGE / JD Edwards preferred).
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management abilities.
Educational Qualification
- Bachelor's / Master's degree in Engineering, Supply Chain, or Logistics Management.
Preferred Attributes
- Diploma in Import & Export Management or Logistics.
- Professional certifications such as CSCP, CILT, EXIM Diploma.
- Experience in ISO-certified environments and logistics documentation.
- Exposure to global logistics networks and cost optimization projects.
- Strong leadership and team management skills.