Global Shipping Specialist

Job SummaryWe are seeking an experienced and detail-oriented Global Shipping Specialist to manage the end-to-end international shipping and logistics operations for our portfolio of five (5) perfume brands. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating ocean freight, air cargo, customs clearance, and all related shipping and import/export operations to ensure timely, cost-effective, and compliant delivery of products across international and domestic markets.This role requires strong knowledge of Saudi customs regulations (including SASO/SABER requirements), international freight forwarding, and the specific handling requirements of alcohol-based/fragrance cosmetic products.Key Responsibilities: Freight & Logistics ManagementManage and coordinate all ocean freight (FCL/LCL) and air cargo shipments across all five perfume brands, from origin to final destination.Liaise with freight forwarders, shipping lines, and airlines to negotiate competitive freight rates and secure reliable transit schedules.Track and monitor shipments in real time, proactively resolving delays, routing issues, or disruptions.Consolidate shipments across brands and suppliers where possible to optimize cost and efficiency.Evaluate and recommend alternative shipping routes/modes (sea, air, or overland/TIR trucking) based on cost, urgency, and cargo type.Customs & ComplianceManage import/export customs clearance processes in coordination with customs brokers and Saudi Customs authorities.Ensure all shipments comply with SASO, SABER, and other applicable Saudi regulatory requirements for cosmetics and fragrance products.Review all required shipping documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates of origin, bills of lading, airway bills, and any product-specific certifications.Stay current on regulatory changes affecting the import of alcohol-based/fragrance products and update internal processes accordingly.Handle classification (HS codes) and duty/tax assessments for all shipped products.Vendor & Stakeholder CoordinationBuild and maintain strong relationships with freight forwarders, shipping agents, customs brokers, and logistics service providers.Negotiate contracts and service level agreements (SLAs) with logistics partners.Coordinate with the five brands' supply chain/production teams to align shipping schedules with production and demand planning.Act as the primary point of contact for all shipping-related inquiries from internal stakeholders (sales, warehouse, finance) and external partners.Cost & Performance ManagementMonitor and control shipping and logistics costs; identify cost-saving opportunities across all brands.Prepare regular reports on shipment status, costs, transit times, and KPIs for management review.Manage claims processes for damaged, lost, or delayed shipments.Support budgeting and forecasting related to logistics and shipping expenses.Qualifications & RequirementsBachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Business Administration, or a related field.ExperienceMinimum 3–5 years of experience in international shipping, freight forwarding, or logistics operations, ideally within the cosmetics, or fragrance industry.Proven experience managing ocean freight, air cargo, and customs clearance processes.Experience handling multiple brands or product lines simultaneously is preferred.Familiarity with shipping sensitive/regulated goods (e.g., alcohol-based products) is a strong advantage.Skills & KnowledgeStrong knowledge of Incoterms, international shipping regulations, and customs procedures.Working knowledge of Saudi import regulations, SASO/SABER certification requirements.Proficiency with freight/logistics software and ERP systems.Excellent negotiation, organizational, and problem-solving skills.Strong communication skills in both Arabic and English.Ability to manage multiple shipments and priorities across different brands simultaneously.High attention to detail, particularly with documentation and compliance requirements.Preferred AttributesPrior experience working with perfume, cosmetics, or FMCG brands.Existing network of freight forwarders and customs brokers in Saudi Arabia and key trade lanes (China, Europe, GCC).Ability to work under pressure and manage time-sensitive shipments.