Import & Export Supervisor

Job description

As the Import & Export Operations Supervisor at Lotus Bakeries, you are responsible for overseeing our international import and export operations across Belgium and the UK. You lead a team of Import & Export Coordinators, ensure compliant and cost-efficient transport flows, and act as a key link between logistics partners, customs authorities, and internal stakeholders. In the role of Import & Export Supervisor, you will: Lead, coach, and develop the Import & Export Coordinator team, while managing workload, priorities, resources, and performance. Oversee daily import and export operations across Belgium and the UK, serving as the escalation point for operational and customer service issues while ensuring efficient shipment execution and resolving operational bottlenecks. Plan and coordinate ocean freight bookings and container transport for efficient movement of goods between ports, warehouses, and production facilities. Serve as the key operational contact for freight forwarders, customs brokers, transport providers partners and internal stakeholders, fostering strong relationships to ensure high service quality and seamless coordination across international supply chain operations. Responsible for managing in-house customs declarations in CAS software, including the maintenance of customs decision tables and the timely, accurate execution of customs formalities. Act as a key liaison with customs brokers and authorities, while supporting audits and trade compliance programs to ensure full compliance with customs legislation and company requirements. Drive continuous improvement across import, export, customs, and transportation processes and contribute to logistics and supply chain projects. Maintain expertise in customs regulations, import/export procedures, and Incoterms, ensuring operational compliance with regulatory requirements. You contribute to process improvements and supported customs-related training initiatives within the team. You hold a Master's degree and have at least 5 years of experience in international logistics, import/export operations, customs, or freight forwarding. Experience in the food, FMCG, or manufacturing industry is considered an advantage. At least two years of people management experience has given you a strong foundation in leading, coaching, and developing operational teams. Proven experience in managing international import and export operations, including ocean freight coordination, customs clearance processes & container transport planning, with strong knowledge of customs regulations, Incoterms, commodity classification, customs valuation, and origin requirements. Good knowledge of CAS or comparable customs management systems is important, combined with a good command of SAP and Microsoft Office, especially Excel. Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving skills enable you to prioritize effectively and make sound decisions under pressure. Your proven leadership capabilities allow you to motivate your team, while your proactive, solution-oriented, and service-minded approach helps you build strong relationships with both internal and external stakeholders. You combine commercial awareness with a strong focus on compliance, quality, and continuous improvement. Fluency in Dutch and English, both written and spoken, is required.