Business Development Manager (Customs Clearance)

Description

Summary: Lead and strategically manage the customs clearance function with P&L accountability, overseeing end-to-end operations, ensuring compliance, and driving digital transformation. Highlights: 1. Strategic leadership and P&L accountability for customs clearance. 2. Drive innovation and digital transformation in customs operations. 3. Integrate customs clearance with 3PL/4PL supply chain solutions. Business Development Manager (Customs Clearance) Job Description 1\. Strategic Leadership \& Division Management \* Lead the overall customs clearance function with full P\&L and performance accountability. \* Develop and execute strategic plans to enhance efficiency, scalability, and service quality. \* Establish policies, SOPs, and governance frameworks for customs operations. \* Drive innovation, digital transformation, and process automation (EDI, paperless clearance). 2\. End\-to\-End Customs Operations Oversight \* Oversee all import and export clearance activities across multiple clients and industries. \* Ensure accuracy in documentation, classification (HS codes), valuation, and duty/tax computation. \* Monitor shipment flow, identify bottlenecks, and ensure timely clearance. \* Standardize processes to improve turnaround time (TAT) and operational efficiency. 3\. Compliance \& Regulatory Leadership \* Ensure strict adherence to customs laws, international trade regulations, and local compliance requirements. \* Stay updated with regulatory changes, tariffs, and trade agreements. \* Lead internal and external audits, inspections, and compliance reporting. \* Ensure governance for restricted/prohibited goods and trade compliance risks. 4\. 3PL / 4PL Supply Chain Integration \* Integrate customs clearance operations with warehouse, container yard, and fleet logistics. \* Act as a central control point in 4PL solutions for end\-to\-end supply chain visibility. \* Align clearance timelines with transportation and delivery schedules. \* Support strategic clients with customized logistics and compliance solutions. 5\. Financial Management \& Cost Optimization \* Manage division budget, revenue streams, and profitability. \* Drive cost optimization in duties, demurrage, detention, and port charges. \* Develop pricing models for customs clearance services. \* Analyze cost per shipment and improve operational margins. 6\. Stakeholder \& Government Relations \* Build and maintain strong relationships with customs authorities, port officials, and regulatory bodies. \* Represent the organization in government and trade forums. \* Liaise with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and clearing agents. \* Handle high\-level escalations, disputes, and compliance matters. 7\. Team Leadership \& Organizational Development \* Lead and develop a high\-performing customs team (Managers, Assistant Managers, Executives). \* Define structure, roles, KPIs, and performance standards. \* Drive talent development, succession planning, and capability building. \* Promote a culture of compliance, accountability, and continuous improvement. 8\. Technology \& Digital Transformation \* Implement and optimize customs systems, ERP integration, and digital platforms. \* Drive automation in documentation, tracking, and reporting. \* Use analytics and dashboards for performance monitoring and decision\-making. \* Ensure real\-time visibility and data accuracy. 9\. Risk Management \& Governance \* Identify and mitigate risks related to customs non\-compliance, penalties, and delays. \* Establish strong internal controls and audit mechanisms. \* Manage legal disputes, penalties, and corrective actions. \* Ensure documentation integrity and audit readiness. 10\. Business Development Support \* Support sales and commercial teams in acquiring new clients. \* Design value\-added customs solutions for key accounts. \* Enhance service offerings to improve competitive advantage. \* Drive customer retention through service excellence. Required Qualifications \* Bachelor’s Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain, Commerce, or related field. \* Master’s Degree (MBA / Supply Chain / International Trade) preferred. \* Professional certifications in customs clearance, trade compliance, or logistics are highly desirable. Experience \* 12–18\+ years in customs clearance, freight forwarding, or international trade. \* Proven experience in leading customs operations at a strategic level. \* Strong exposure to 3PL / 4PL integrated logistics environments. \* Experience in handling regulatory authorities and large client portfolios. Pay: QAR10,000\.00 \- QAR15,000\.00 per month Work Location: In person