Customs Specialist Manager M/F

General informations

  With the group’s expertise of more than 50 years of experience and a continuous presence on the African continent, Africa Global Logistics South Africa provides end-to-end solutions with in-depth knowledge of the legal and cultural diversities specific to each country. Our powerful integrated global network and sustainable solutions enable innovative and flexible designs in their execution.

AGL South Africa is your gateway throughout Africa, facilitating freight forwarding, customs clearance, warehousing and distribution activities for many multinational companies.

Job description

 Job Title 

FREIGHT FORWARDING CUSTOMS
Customs Specialist Manager M/F

 Contract Type

PERMANENT

 Job Location

Africa, South Africa, JOHANNESBURG

 Working Hours                        

Full time

Mission Description                      

Job Purpose:

The Customs Specialist Manager is responsible for ensuring the accurate and compliant execution of all customs clearance activities related to international shipments. This includes managing a customs team, coordinating with government agencies, and ensuring efficient and cost-effective movement of goods across borders. The role demands strong knowledge of local and international customs regulations, excellent leadership skills, and a high level of attention to detail.

Job Function:
• Lead and manage the customs clearance team, ensuring timely and compliant processing of import and export shipments.
• Ensure all documentation submitted to customs authorities is accurate, complete, and aligned with current legislation and company policies.
• Liaise with SARS, Customs, and other regulatory bodies to resolve issues, clarify requirements, and stay aligned with applicable laws and regulations.
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of customs regulations, trade agreements, tariffs, and relevant legislative changes affecting freight movement.
• Oversee classification of goods (HS codes), valuation, duty and VAT calculations, and permit/license requirements, including ITAC permits and SARS customs codes.
• Ensure the correct application of Incoterms and manage all bonded and transit documentation, including RIT and Road Bond acquittals.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams (operations, sales, warehousing) and external stakeholders (clients, agents, border authorities) to optimize clearance processes.
• Provide training and mentorship to both junior and senior customs staff, ensuring comprehensive knowledge of the Customs Tariff and procedures.
• Monitor team performance using KPIs and drive continuous improvement in speed, accuracy, compliance, and client satisfaction.
• Represent the company during audits or investigations related to customs compliance; ensure accurate record-keeping and audit readiness.
• Handle and resolve client and network customs-related queries efficiently and professionally.
• Manage and finalize all customs refund applications.
• Maintain and update the Warehouse Bond Books weekly to ensure compliance and accuracy.
• Organize and oversee all statutory customs-related matters, ensuring national consistency in processes and compliance.

Profile

Continued

• Develop, implement, and enforce streamlined customs procedures across all branches; ensure alignment with SARS requirements and internal standards.
• Conduct monthly reviews with national customs managers to align on compliance, performance, and procedural updates.
• Facilitate regular communication with SARS, and provide feedback and regulatory updates to internal teams.
• Ensure all branches operate in full compliance with SARS codes and customs regulations, including conducting internal audits where necessary.
• Identify and recommend process improvements and system enhancements to improve efficiency and reduce delays or penalties.
• Carry out any other delegated tasks as assigned by the reporting manager.

Qualifications and Experience:
• Matric certificate (required); relevant tertiary qualification in International Trade, Logistics, or Customs Compliance (preferred).
• Accredited with the South African Revenue Service (SARS) as a customs declarant or possess a valid SARS RCG registration.
• Minimum 5–7 years' experience in customs clearing within freight forwarding, with at least 2–3 years in a leadership or managerial role.
• In-depth understanding of customs laws, tariff schedules, and import/export procedures.
• Proficient in customs systems such as EDI, CargoWise, or similar platforms.
• Solid experience with import/export procedures via air, sea, and road.
• Strong understanding of incoterms, bonded cargo, temporary imports/exports, and permits (e.g., ITAC, NRCS, etc.).

Key Competencies:
• Strong leadership and team management skills
• High attention to detail and accuracy
• Excellent problem-solving and decision-making capabilities
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
• Strong organizational and planning abilities
• Client-focused mindset with strong ethics and integrity