Export Officer | Torchora

🎯 Role Definition

As our Export Officer, you will be the linchpin of our international shipping operations. You will be responsible for orchestrating the entire export lifecycle, from order processing to final delivery. This includes managing complex documentation, liaising with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and international customers, and ensuring unwavering compliance with global trade laws and regulations. The ideal candidate is a proactive problem-solver with exceptional attention to detail, capable of navigating the complexities of international logistics to ensure timely and cost-effective shipments. You will be instrumental in maintaining our reputation for excellence in the global marketplace.

📈 Career Progression

Typical Career Path

Entry Point From:

Export/Logistics Coordinator
Shipping Administrator
Supply Chain Assistant

Advancement To:

Senior Export Officer / Export Manager
Trade Compliance Manager
Head of International Logistics

Lateral Moves:

Import Officer
Supply Chain Planner
Procurement Specialist

Core Responsibilities

Primary Functions

Manage the end-to-end export shipment process, from order receipt and booking confirmation through to final delivery, ensuring a seamless and efficient workflow.
Accurately prepare, review, and process all essential export documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, bills of lading (Airway Bill/Ocean Bill of Lading), and certificates of origin.
Ensure strict adherence to all international and country-specific trade compliance regulations, customs laws, and export control requirements to mitigate risk.
Coordinate and negotiate with freight forwarders, shipping lines, and carriers to book shipments, secure competitive rates, and ensure optimal routing and transit times.
Liaise directly with international customers, sales teams, and warehouse staff to provide shipment status updates, resolve inquiries, and manage expectations effectively.
Handle all aspects of Letter of Credit (L/C) transactions, including meticulous document preparation and submission to banks, ensuring all terms and conditions are met to facilitate payment.
Prepare and file electronic export information (EEI) through the Automated Export System (AES), ensuring timely and accurate declarations to government agencies.
Classify products with the correct Harmonized System (HS) codes and Export Control Classification Numbers (ECCN) to ensure proper customs declaration.
Monitor and track all outbound international shipments, proactively identifying and resolving any potential delays, customs holds, or logistical issues.
Manage and maintain comprehensive shipment files and records in both digital and physical formats for audit and compliance purposes.
Verify and approve freight invoices, customs charges, and other third-party service provider bills, ensuring accuracy and allocating costs appropriately.
Coordinate with production and warehouse teams to ensure product availability, proper packaging, and labeling for international transport according to destination requirements.
Provide detailed shipping instructions and documentation to freight forwarders and other logistics partners to ensure the smooth execution of all shipments.
Advise internal departments, such as sales and finance, on export-related matters, including Incoterms, payment terms, and potential shipping costs or restrictions.
Prepare and present regular reports on export activities, shipment volumes, on-time delivery performance, and logistics costs to management.

Secondary Functions

Actively participate in the continuous improvement of export processes and procedures to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and improve service levels.
Assist the Trade Compliance Manager in conducting internal audits and risk assessments related to export operations and documentation.
Support the sales department by providing accurate freight quotes and estimated lead times for potential international orders.
Collaborate with the finance department to resolve any discrepancies related to international payments, invoices, or letters of credit.
Stay current with changes in international trade regulations, tariffs, and customs procedures that could impact the company's export activities.
Train and mentor junior staff or new team members on company-specific export procedures, compliance standards, and systems.
Participate in cross-functional projects related to supply chain optimization, new market entry, or ERP system enhancements.

Required Skills & Competencies

Hard Skills (Technical)

Export Documentation Expertise: Proficient in creating and managing a full range of export documents, including Bills of Lading, Commercial Invoices, Certificates of Origin, and packing lists.
Incoterms Knowledge: Deep understanding and practical application of Incoterms 2020 to define responsibilities and risks between buyer and seller.
Customs & Trade Compliance: Strong working knowledge of international customs regulations, export controls (EAR, ITAR), and trade compliance requirements.
Logistics Coordination: Demonstrated ability to coordinate with freight forwarders, carriers, and customs brokers to manage international air and ocean freight.
ERP/TMS Proficiency: Hands-on experience with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle, NetSuite) and Transportation Management Systems (TMS).
AES Filing: Proven experience in preparing and submitting Electronic Export Information (EEI) via the Automated Export System (AESDirect).
Letter of Credit (L/C) Management: Familiarity with handling and processing documentary collections and letters of credit to ensure timely and compliant payment.

Soft Skills

Exceptional Attention to Detail: Meticulous and precise in handling complex documentation and data to ensure 100% accuracy and compliance.
Strong Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication abilities for clear correspondence with customers, vendors, and internal teams across different cultures.
Problem-Solving Acumen: Proactive and resourceful in identifying, analyzing, and resolving logistical challenges, customs delays, and shipment issues.
Time Management & Organization: Superior ability to prioritize multiple tasks, manage deadlines, and maintain organized records in a fast-paced environment.
Negotiation Skills: Ability to effectively negotiate rates and terms with freight forwarders and other logistics service providers to achieve cost savings.
Adaptability: Flexible and able to adapt to changing trade regulations, customer requirements, and operational priorities.

Education & Experience

Educational Background

Minimum Education:

Bachelor's degree or equivalent practical experience in a relevant field.

Preferred Education:

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Supply Chain Management or International Business.

Relevant Fields of Study:

Supply Chain Management
International Business / Trade
Logistics
Business Administration

Experience Requirements

Typical Experience Range:

2-5 years of direct experience in an export, international logistics, or freight forwarding role.

Preferred:

Experience within a specific industry (e.g., manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, technology) and a proven track record of handling complex international shipments to various global regions.
Professional certification such as Certified International Trade Professional (CITP) or similar is a plus.