Logistics Manager - Import/Export & Customs Clearance

About the role

The Logistics Manager executes and optimizes all logistics, freight, import/export and customs clearance activities so that materials and finished products move in Togo in a timely, compliant and cost-effective way. The role manages freight forwarding partners, Customs House Agents, transport vendors and other logistics service providers, ensuring full documentation governance, regulatory compliance and SLA adherence.

Key responsibilities

• Coordinate shipments with Customs House Agents and freight forwarders to meet customs clearance timelines, and prepare and control all import, export and domestic documentation, including duties, levies, taxes and charges.
• Ensure compliance with Togolese customs regulations (OTR), import/export laws and ECOWAS trade requirements, and coordinate shipments through the Port of Lome and Lome-Tokoin airport.
• Manage transport vendors and freight forwarders, evaluate them on cost, quality, capacity and reliability, negotiate freight rates and monitor vendor performance against SLAs and KPIs.
• Generate shipment and logistics performance reports, hold performance reviews with partners, obtain cost approvals and prevent demurrage, penalties and delays.
• Reduce customs clearance lead times, improve processes and cost efficiency, identify automation opportunities and strengthen shipment visibility across domestic and regional supply chains.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration or a related field.
• Minimum 5 years of experience in logistics, customs clearance, import/export operations or supply chain management.
• Strong knowledge of Togolese customs regulations, OTR procedures, ECOWAS trade protocols and shipment documentation; experience with the Port of Lome and Togo customs agents is highly preferred.
• Proven vendor management and freight cost negotiation experience.

Required skills

• Analytical, communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and logistics tracking/reporting tools is an advantage.