- The Export Logistics Specialist oversees and manages end-to-end export operations to ensure that goods leave the organization's facilities and reach international vendors on time, within budget and in full compliance of all agreed regulations; including safety standards.
- The role is focused on planning, coordination, documentation & stakeholder management for all exports handled by Soko.
Export Operations & Coordination
- Plan, organize, and oversee the entire export process from order placement to delivery at the destination.
- Coordinate with production, warehousing, and procurement teams to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment.
- Liaise with freight forwarders, carriers, and third-party logistics providers to schedule shipments.
- Track shipments, resolve delays, and ensure smooth cargo movement.
Documentation & Compliance
- Prepare and review all required export documentation (invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, export licenses, etc.).
- Ensure compliance with international trade laws, customs regulations, and organizational policies.
- Maintain accurate records of shipments for audit and reporting purposes.
- Stay updated on changes in export/import regulations, customs procedures, and trade agreements.
Customer & Stakeholder Management
- Act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding export logistics inquiries.
- Provide timely updates to customers on order and shipment status.
- Resolve customer complaints, shipment issues, or documentation errors promptly.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with shipping agents, port authorities, and regulatory agencies.
- Negotiate shipping rates and terms with carriers and freight forwarders to optimize costs.
- Analyze export logistics performance and recommend process improvements for efficiency and cost savings.
- Support and coordinate container reconditioning logistics when overseas regulators identify non-compliance issues.
- Ensure all reconditioning processes follow approved SOPs and documentation standards before goods are released to buyers.
- Maintain close communication with third-party service providers managing sterilization or product rework.
Supply Chain Traceability
- Ensure all exported goods have a clear, verifiable origin and traceable supply chain documentation.
- Work with sourcing and quality teams to build systems that enable end-to-end traceability of export products.
- Maintain audit-ready export documentation, certifications, and inspection records in compliance with global regulatory standards.
- Monitor freight costs, customs duties, and tariffs to control budgets.
- Identify opportunities for cost reduction across shipping, warehousing, and handling processes.
- Implement strategies that improve container utilization, reduce demurrage/detention, and optimize route planning.
- Regularly review freight spend and propose cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or timelines.
Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:
- 5+ years of experience in Supply chain, with at least 3 years focusing on Exports.
- Proficiency in export management systems and tracking tools.
- Proficiency in building complex formulas and functions in Google Sheets to support data analysis and reporting.
- Language requirement: English is required. Working knowledge of Swahili is also useful
- Strong planning and organizational skills.
- Excellent communication and coordination abilities.
- Proficient in export management systems and tracking tools.
- Analytical mindset for cost projections and performance tracking.
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.