Role Overview
Fogs Consultants is seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Assistant Manager – Export Operations to independently manage end-to-end export documentation, regulatory compliance, and logistics coordination for shipments to GCC countries for one of their clients. The role requires strong working knowledge of Indian export procedures, hands-on experience coordinating with Customs House Agents (CHAs), and the commercial acumen to negotiate competitive freight rates with shipping lines and freight forwarders. This is a critical operational role that directly impacts shipment timelines, landed costs, and buyer compliance in destination markets.
Key Responsibilities
1. Export Documentation & Regulatory Compliance
Prepare, verify, and manage the complete export documentation set for each shipment – proforma invoice, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and shipping bill.
Coordinate applications for Phytosanitary Certificates, Fumigation Certificates, and Certificates of Inspection (EIC/EIA) where applicable to the product and destination country. Ensure compliance with DGFT policy, APEDA contract registration requirements, and other product-specific export regulations, and track policy changes that affect ongoing or planned shipments.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of destination-country import requirements (e.g. SFDA/SABER/SALEEM certification in Saudi Arabia, and equivalent regimes in other GCC states), and ensure outgoing documentation matches buyer-side certification needs.
Manage AD code registration, LUT/GST compliance for zero-rated exports, IEC-related matters, and e-BRC closure after payment realization.
2. CHA & Customs Coordination
Act as the primary point of contact with Customs House Agents (CHAs) for shipping bill filing via ICEGATE, customs assessment, and clearance at the port of loading.
Brief CHAs accurately on shipment specifics (HS codes, quantities, values, applicable schemes) and proactively resolve queries raised during customs assessment.
Track shipments through inspection, quarantine clearance, and loading, ensuring all time-bound certificates (phytosanitary, fumigation, inspection) are completed within the vessel cut-off window.
Escalate and resolve documentation discrepancies or customs holds swiftly to avoid demurrage and shipment delays.
3. Freight & Logistics Coordination
Source and negotiate freight rates with shipping lines, NVOCCs, and freight forwarders for GCC-bound cargo, balancing cost, transit time, and reliability.
Compare and evaluate multiple freight quotations, container availability, and sailing schedules to select optimal routing for each shipment.
Build and maintain strong working relationships with shipping lines and forwarders to secure priority space allocation and competitive contract/spot rates, especially during peak season or space-constrained periods.
Track freight market trends on key GCC lanes and proactively advise management on rate movements, surcharges (e.g. peak season, congestion), and cost-saving opportunities.
Coordinate container booking, stuffing schedules, and on-time gate-in to avoid rollover and detention charges.
4. Buyer & Stakeholder Communication
Liaise with overseas buyers/importers in GCC countries to confirm shipment schedules, documentation requirements, and any destination-specific certification needs.
Coordinate with internal teams (procurement, quality, finance) to ensure shipment readiness and accurate, timely documentation.
Communicate proactively with all stakeholders — CHAs, shipping lines, buyers, and internal management — on shipment status, exceptions, and resolution timelines.
5. Process & Cost Management
Maintain shipment trackers, documentation checklists, and compliance records for audit readiness.
Monitor and control logistics costs (freight, CHA fees, certification charges) against budget, and identify process efficiencies.
Support timely realization of export proceeds and coordination with the bank for e-BRC generation. Requirements
Education
Bachelor’s degree in International Trade, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Commerce, or a related field.
A postgraduate diploma in Export-Import Management or Foreign Trade is an added advantage.
Experience 3–6 years of hands-on experience in export operations, documentation, or logistics, preferably with exposure to GCC-bound shipments. Demonstrated experience working directly with CHAs, freight forwarders, and shipping lines. Experience with agricultural/food product exports is a plus, though not mandatory. Knowledge & Technical Skills Strong working knowledge of Indian export procedures and regulatory bodies: DGFT, APEDA, Customs (ICEGATE), Plant Quarantine, EIC/EIA, and AD banking processes. Familiarity with export documentation: shipping bills, certificates of origin, phytosanitary and fumigation certificates, bills of lading, and e-BRC. Working knowledge of GCC import compliance frameworks (e.g. Saudi SFDA/SABER/SALEEM, UAE and other GCC customs/conformity requirements) as relevant to the product categories handled. Understanding of INCOTERMS, freight cost structures, and shipping documentation (bill of lading, container types, port procedures). Proficiency with ICEGATE, DGFT, and APEDA online portals; comfortable with MS Excel and shipment tracking tools/ERP systems. Core Competencies Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to coordinate clearly and professionally across CHAs, shipping lines, buyers, and internal teams. Strong negotiation skills, particularly in securing competitive freight rates and favorable terms from shipping lines and freight forwarders. High attention to detail and accuracy in documentation — errors in export paperwork can cause costly shipment delays or compliance issues. Strong organizational and multitasking ability to manage multiple shipments and deadlines simultaneously. Problem-solving mindset with the ability to make sound decisions under time pressure (e.g. vessel cut-offs, customs queries). Ability to work independently while keeping management informed of shipment status and issues. Preferred / Good to Have Existing relationships with CHAs, shipping lines, or freight forwarders operating out of Kerala ports (Cochin) or nearby gateway ports. Prior experience exporting to Saudi Arabia and other GCC markets specifically. Basic understanding of Letters of Credit (LC) and other export payment/trade finance instruments. Key Performance Indicators (Illustrative) On-time shipment and documentation turnaround rate. Freight cost savings achieved through negotiation versus benchmark/market rates. Reduction in documentation errors, customs queries, and shipment delays. Timely e-BRC closure and export proceeds realization. Buyer satisfaction / compliance acceptance rate at destination customs. Is there any place where the company name Sapco Marsha is mentioned?
Pay: From ₹40,000.00 per month
Work Location: In person
