Customs Manager M/F

	Customs Manager M/F

General informations

 Africa Global Logistics Botswana offers logistics solutions in all the sectors that govern the economic life of this country.
For 38 years, through our multimodal logistics solutions (clearing and forwarding, transport and warehousing), we have been putting our know-how at the service of the socio-economic development of Botswana. Thanks to the synergy of our resources, we actively participate in the major development projects of the Southern African region.
Through investments in equipment and innovations, our teams are committed to offering tailor-made logistics solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients.

Job description

Mission Description                      

Job Purpose:

The Customs 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 withCustoms, 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 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.
• 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, and provide feedback and regulatory updates to internal teams.
• Ensure all branches operate in full compliance with 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 repo

 

Profile

Qualifications and Experience:
• Matric certificate (required); relevant tertiary qualification in International Trade, Logistics, or Customs Compliance (preferred).
• 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