Import Manager jobs
Trading with foreign jurisdictions has been in existence as long as humanity, and it has always come with its rafts of laws and regulations to make sure all imports and exports are legal. In modern times, despite opening up borders and relaxing duties, importation is still a job that requires expert administrators with a deep knowledge of the law surrounding their sector.
From a business perspective, the import manager’s most important role is to ensure all imports land in their allotted places on time and in one piece. Since warehousing can be an expensive business, ensuring imports are timed perfectly to keep them moving and profits growing will be vital. The import manager will also be in charge of ensuring deliveries are correct as ordered and are not damaged, and remedial action will be required if anything is amiss.
The import manager may also have buying responsibilities, keeping an eye on prices, seeking out more efficient deals and negotiating rates with existing or new suppliers. But in every aspect of the job, the need to observe both UK and international law will be the overarching requirement, as failure to observe it could threaten the company’s future and profits.
The skills required
The role of the import manager will be divided between business critical, financial management and ensuring the correct paperwork is in order regarding import law. It is therefore a multi-stranded job, which will necessarily suit people able to switch between roles several times a day.
A thorough knowledge of import law, particularly law surrounding the specific goods and the jurisdictions being dealt with, will be essential, especially in smaller companies, where the import manager might not have a large team to assist with this element. However in larger companies some of the specific roles might be filled by specialists in particular goods or markets, so more general management skills will be valued.
An ability to keep track of complex logistical operations will be required, and as this will be largely computerised, so will a good grasp of modern IT systems.
Import Manager Jobs in Exeter
Situated in Devon, Exeter is a historic city on the River Exe. It is known as being one of the most profitable locations to base a business, meaning there are many opportunities for those seeking Import Manager roles.
People have been living in this area for thousands of years - and the easily navigable river meant that there was a thriving trade with the Mediterranean as far back as 250 BC.
During the Middle Ages, Exeter had one of the largest markets in the south-west and it was also known for its annual fairs, which continued until the 16th century.
At the dawn of the Industrial Revolution, Exeter's industry was mainly based on agricultural products. Water power was used to some degree, but the city was too far from a source of coal to make the most of steam power.
The development of the canal network did, however, help to boost Exeter's prominence, and the Bristol and Exeter Railway opened in 1844, further building the local economy.
Today, Exeter is a bustling city with plenty of retail space, particularly in the Princesshay Shopping Centre. It is also home to a number of big employers, with a several companies employing 1,000 people or more - such as British Telecom, EDF and Flybe.
In 2004, the Met Office relocated to Exeter and this organisation is now one of the largest employers in the region, along with Devon County Council and the University of Exeter. Other companies with a significant presence include Tesco, the Highways Agency and Alcoa Howmet.
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Cast UK’s logistics opportunities
Employers approach Cast UK to find candidates because they’re confident that we can fill their managerial and executive vacancies. We were founded by specialists in the logistics, supply chain and procurement trade, and our consultants are also drawn from these backgrounds, so we know what employers and candidates are looking for.
At any time, we have jobs and candidates in all areas of the UK, so we are perfectly placed to find you work wherever you are. Whether you’re moving house or simply looking for more job fulfilment or to advance your career, there’s more than likely an employer who’s looking for the skills you have.
Please get in touch if you’re looking for a job in logistics; there’s a good chance there will be a vacancy now or in the near future.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit an Import Manager for your business or find you a job as an Import Manager then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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