Head of Clearing

Job description

Overview

We are recruiting!

Our client in Lusaka, is looking for a Head of Clearing to join their team for a job vacancy within the logistics industry.

To apply, or for more information, follow the link below.

A Head of Clearing is typically responsible for overseeing all clearing and forwarding operations, ensuring the efficient movement of goods through customs while complying with all applicable laws and regulations. The role is common in logistics, freight forwarding, shipping, and customs brokerage companies.

 Head of Clearing

 Job Summary

The Head of Clearing is responsible for leading and managing the clearing department, ensuring the timely and compliant clearance of import and export shipments. The role involves developing operational strategies, managing staff, maintaining relationships with customs authorities and other stakeholders, and ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction while meeting business objectives.

 Key Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee all customs clearing operations for imports and exports.
• Ensure compliance with customs laws, regulations, and company policies.
• Develop and implement strategies to improve operational efficiency and service delivery.
• Manage and mentor the clearing team, setting performance objectives and conducting appraisals.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with customs authorities, port officials, shipping lines, and regulatory agencies.
• Monitor shipment progress and resolve delays, disputes, or compliance issues promptly.
• Ensure accurate preparation and submission of customs documentation.
• Review and approve customs declarations and related documentation.
• Monitor departmental budgets and control operational costs.
• Identify operational risks and implement mitigation measures.
• Keep abreast of changes in customs regulations and communicate updates to the team.
• Prepare operational and management reports, including KPIs and performance metrics.
• Collaborate with sales, operations, finance, transport, and customer service teams to deliver seamless service.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives within the clearing function.

 Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, Customs Administration, or a related field.
• Professional certification in Customs Clearing and Forwarding or a related discipline is an added advantage.
• Membership of a relevant professional body is desirable.

 Experience

• Minimum of 7–10 years of experience in customs clearing and forwarding or logistics operations.
• At least 3–5 years in a senior management or supervisory role.
• Proven experience dealing with customs authorities and regulatory agencies.

 Knowledge and Skills

• Extensive knowledge of customs laws, tariffs, import/export procedures, and international trade regulations.
• Strong leadership and people management skills.
• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management abilities.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• High attention to detail and accuracy.
• Financial and commercial awareness.
• Proficiency in customs management systems, freight management software, and Microsoft Office applications.

 Key Competencies

• Leadership and team development
• Strategic thinking
• Decision-making
• Planning and organisation
• Customer focus
• Integrity and ethical conduct
• Adaptability and resilience
• Results orientation
• Risk management
• Continuous improvement mindset

 Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Customs clearance turnaround time.
• Percentage of shipments cleared within agreed timelines.
• Customs compliance rate.
• Number of customs penalties or compliance violations.
• Customer satisfaction ratings.
• Departmental productivity and efficiency.
• Cost savings achieved through process improvements.
• Employee performance and retention.

 Customs Systems

• ASYCUDA World (Automated System for Customs Data) – The primary customs management system used by the Zambia Revenue Authority (ZRA) for processing import, export, transit, warehousing, and customs declarations.
• ZRA Customs Electronic Services (e-Services) – Used for submitting customs-related applications, payments, and accessing customs information online.
• COMESA Customs Transit Management System (CTMS) – Facilitates the monitoring and management of goods moving under customs transit within COMESA member states.
• Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS) – Used to monitor cargo in transit across several countries in the COMESA and Northern Corridor regions, helping reduce diversion and improve cargo security.
• Electronic Single Window – Integrates multiple government agencies involved in import and export processes, enabling traders to submit documentation through a single platform.

Knowledge of Trade Facilitation Systems and other relevant systems such as

• COMESA
• SADC
• African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
• Freight forwarding and logistics management systems.
• Warehouse Management Systems (WMS).
• Transport Management Systems (TMS).
• Electronic document management systems.
• Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel for reporting and data analysis.

Technical Knowledge

• Demonstrated proficiency in ASYCUDA World and other ZRA customs systems.
• Sound knowledge of customs clearance procedures under ZRA regulations.
• Experience using COMESA CTMS, Regional Electronic Cargo Tracking System (RECTS), and other regional trade facilitation platforms.
• Familiarity with Electronic Single Window platforms and digital customs processes.
• Competence in freight forwarding, logistics, and warehouse management systems.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, Outlook, and PowerPoint.

“All candidates are required to obtain their ZAQA certification from the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA)”