Clearing & Forwarding Manager

About the role

Based in Nairobi and reporting to the Head of International Freight Forwarding, the Clearing & Forwarding Manager will lead all customs clearance and forwarding activities. The role ensures efficient import and export processing, regulatory compliance, and high levels of customer satisfaction while driving profitability.

Key responsibilities

• Manage end‑to‑end import and export customs clearance, including declarations, permits, duty payments and cargo release.
• Coordinate sea, air, and road freight as well as warehousing to guarantee seamless cargo movement.
• Monitor cargo status, resolve delays, customs issues and operational bottlenecks proactively.
• Ensure compliance with local customs laws, revenue authority requirements and international trade regulations.
• Maintain relationships with customs authorities, port agencies, shipping lines, airlines and logistics partners.
• Lead customs audits, maintain accurate documentation and mitigate compliance risks.
• Handle escalated operational issues and customer complaints professionally.
• Support commercial teams in customer retention, business development and performance reviews.
• Oversee departmental profitability, billing accuracy and cost‑saving initiatives.

Required profile

• Proven experience managing clearing and forwarding operations in a logistics environment.
• Strong knowledge of customs regulations, import/export procedures and trade compliance.
• Demonstrated ability to lead teams, coordinate multi‑modal transport and maintain stakeholder relationships.
• Excellent problem‑solving skills with a focus on operational efficiency and customer service.

Required skills