Inbound Supply Chain Manager

We are partnering with a leading international consumer brand to recruit an experienced Inbound Supply Chain Manager to oversee international freight, customs compliance and inbound logistics operations across the Middle East, Africa and India (MEAI).This is a regional leadership position requiring a strong background in freight forwarding, international shipping and multi-market logistics, with responsibility for managing the entire inbound supply chain journey from overseas factories to regional warehouses and distribution centres.The successful candidate will bring hands-on knowledge of customs regulations, particularly India BIS certification requirements, alongside the ability to optimise freight operations, manage external logistics partners and drive operational efficiencies across multiple markets.Key ResponsibilitiesManage end-to-end international inbound logistics, from factory collection and shipment coordination through customs clearance to final warehouse delivery.Oversee freight forwarding operations across multiple markets in the Middle East, Africa and India.Develop and optimise international freight strategies, including shipping routes, modes of transportation, transit times and freight costs.Ensure compliance with customs regulations, import/export requirements, Free Trade Agreements and India BIS certification requirements.Manage relationships with freight forwarders, shipping lines, customs brokers and third-party logistics (3PL) providers.Work closely with international suppliers, factories, planning teams and regional warehouses to ensure timely product availability.Identify opportunities for freight consolidation, cost reduction and process improvement.Develop and maintain logistics SOPs, compliance documentation, reporting and operational KPIs.Lead and develop the regional inbound supply chain team.RequirementsMinimum 6 years of relevant experience in international logistics, freight forwarding, inbound supply chain or import/export management.Strong freight forwarding background, including air and ocean freight, international shipping and customs clearance.Knowledge of India BIS certification and import compliance requirements is mandatory.Proven experience managing international freight operations across multiple countries, preferably within the MEAI region.Demonstrated responsibility for the complete inbound logistics process, from international factories or suppliers to warehouses and distribution centres.Strong understanding of customs regulations, trade compliance, Incoterms and international shipping documentation.Experience negotiating with freight forwarders, managing 3PL providers and optimising freight costs.Previous experience managing teams and regional stakeholders.Strong analytical, negotiation and problem-solving skills.Experience within retail, footwear, sportswear, fashion, apparel or FMCG would be advantageous.DUE TO THE NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS RECEIVED, ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED