EXECUTIVE - IMPORTS PROCUREMENT & FOREIGN TRADE

An Executive for Import Procurement & Foreign Trade manages international purchasing, global vendor sourcing, cross-border shipping logistics, and statutory trade compliance.Below is a comprehensive, ready-to-use job description template.Job Title: Executive – Import Procurement & Foreign TradeDepartment: Supply Chain / Sourcing & Logistics / EXIMReporting To: Manager – Procurement / Supply Chain ManagerLocation: [Insert Location/Plant]Job SummaryThe Import Procurement & Foreign Trade Executive oversees the end-to-end foreign procurement cycle, from global vendor sourcing and cost negotiation to customs clearance and final warehouse delivery. The role requires ensuring uninterrupted material flow, minimizing landed costs, and adhering strictly to international trade regulations and foreign trade policies.Key Responsibilities1. Import Procurement & SourcingExecute purchase requisitions and manage the end-to-end purchase order (PO) lifecycle for overseas materials, raw components, or capital goods.Issue Requests for Quotations (RFQs), evaluate global supplier bids, prepare comparative statements, and conduct effective commercial negotiations on price, lead times, and payment terms.Monitor international market trends, freight rate fluctuations, and currency changes to optimize procurement budgets.2. Shipping & Logistics CoordinationCoordinate inbound shipments with global freight forwarders, shipping lines, airlines, and Custom House Agents (CHAs).Track shipment statuses (ETAs) proactively to avoid demurrage, detention, or delays that could impact operations.Apply profound knowledge of international commercial terms (Incoterms like FOB, CIF, EXW, DDP) during transit planning.3. Documentation & Trade CompliancePrepare, verify, and process vital import documentation, including Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, Bills of Lading / Airway Bills, and Certificates of Origin.Manage banking correspondence and trade finance mechanisms, specifically opening and tracking Letters of Credit (LCs) and Telegraphic Transfers (TT).Ensure strict adherence to regulatory frameworks, including customs tariff classifications, import duties, and Foreign Trade Policy (DGFT/Customs guidelines).Coordinate customs clearance procedures, handle inspection holds or queries, and maintain audit-ready filing systems.4. Stakeholder & Vendor ManagementBuild and maintain solid professional relationships with overseas vendors, assessing performance on delivery timeliness and product quality.Coordinate seamlessly with internal departments—including Production, Quality Control, Accounts, and Warehousing—to ensure smooth material intake and invoice reconciliation.