The Role

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Import and Export Manager to lead and oversee our international trade operations with a focus on coffee, oilseeds, and pulses. The ideal candidate will bring a strategic mindset, strong financial acumen, and a deep understanding of banking systems, trade regulations, and operational efficiency. This individual will play a critical role in planning, forecasting, and executing import/export strategies that align with our business objectives. The role involves the management of the company’s vision through the effective implementation of its mission and core values.

Primary Responsibilities

• Strategic Planning & Execution: Develop and implement import and export strategies that support the company’s growth objectives, with particular focus on the coffee, oilseeds, and pulses markets.
• Financial & Banking Oversight: Work closely with the finance team to manage Letters of Credit (LCs), foreign exchange, international payments, and trade finance instruments. 
• Ensure compliance with banking procedures and financial regulations.
• Operational Management: Oversee the end-to-end operations of import and export activities, including logistics, documentation, customs clearance, and freight forwarding.
• Leadership & Team Development: Manage and mentor a team of trade and logistics professionals. Foster a culture of accountability, efficiency, and high performance.
• Forecasting & Performance Monitoring: Lead demand forecasting and inventory planning activities. Set measurable KPIs and monitor trade performance against financial and operational targets.
• Compliance & Risk Management: Ensure compliance with all local and international trade laws, regulations, and industry standards. Mitigate risks related to delays, penalties, or supply chain disruptions.
• Psychology of Money & Deal-Making: Demonstrate an understanding of how financial behavior influences trade negotiations, pricing strategy, and long-term business relationships.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Build and maintain strong relationships with suppliers, buyers, government bodies, shipping lines, banks, and inspection agencies.
• Time-Sensitive Execution: Ensure that all trade operations are executed with a high level of urgency and precision to meet strict shipping schedules and contractual deadlines. 

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Business Administration, Finance, Supply Chain, or related field. Master’s degree is a plus.
• Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in international trade, preferably in coffee or oilseeds/pulses export.
• Proven experience in financial and banking processes related to trade, including LCs, trade finance, and forex.
• Strong leadership and people management skills with the ability to lead cross-functional teams.
• Excellent planning, analytical, and forecasting skills.
• Goal-oriented with a keen sense of urgency and ability to work under pressure.
• Knowledge of international trade laws, documentation, and customs procedures.
• Strong negotiation, interpersonal, and communication skills.
• Strategic thinker with business acumen and a solid grasp of financial psychology in trade.

How To Apply

Interested applicants should send their resume to Samrawitdebebe@ethiojobs.net  OR lidiya.ashenafi@ethiojobs.net  with a Subject line of “Import and Export manager"