Logistics Supervisor

About Unilever

Unilever is a global corporation impacting over 3.4 billion people daily across more than 190 countries through its brands. We are committed to sustainable living and believe that ethical business practices lead to superior outcomes. Our people are central to this vision, and we foster an inclusive, flexible, and collaborative environment where individuals can grow and shape their careers uniquely.

Function Overview

In Saudi Arabia, a strategic market for Unilever, efficient logistics are critical given the complexity of a large and diverse portfolio, varied operations, and unique customer demands. Our logistics model requires agility and operational excellence.

Role Purpose

The Logistics Supervisor will play a vital role in managing the end-to-end import process including shipment operations, customs clearance, and regulatory compliance. This role demands close coordination with government agencies, customs brokers, logistics providers, and warehousing teams to ensure timely, cost-effective, and compliant import movements.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee and monitor import shipments to guarantee prompt and efficient customs clearance.
• Secure all necessary documentation, registrations, permits, triangulation invoices, and approvals ahead of shipment arrivals to prevent delays and minimize demurrage or detention costs.
• Coordinate logistics to ensure timely delivery of imports to designated warehouses.
• Manage compliance with regulatory requirements including SFDA registrations, SASO certifications, customs exemptions, and other government obligations.
• Lead continuous improvement efforts to optimize import and clearance processes.
• Control shipment costs, payment processes, deliveries, and system records related to imports.
• Liaise with government officials to obtain approvals and resolve regulatory issues.
• Ensure all customs clearance procedures and documentation are completed and compliant.
• Handle triangulation invoicing and customs compliance to facilitate smooth clearance operations.
• Manage customs exemptions ensuring adherence to regulations.
• Work closely with warehouse teams to guarantee adequate storage capacity and timely receipt of goods.
• Supervise third-party service providers to uphold efficiency and service standards.
• Initiate and track improvements to reduce clearance times and enhance operational efficiency.
• Follow up on the return of empty containers to reduce detention charges.
• Ensure ongoing compliance with relevant authorities including SFDA, SASO (Saber), Customs, and others.
• Collaborate internally and externally to maintain seamless import operations from start to finish.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business Administration, or related disciplines.
• Between 3 and 5 years of professional experience in logistics, focusing on import operations, customs clearance, and dealing with government entities.
• Familiarity working with Saudi regulatory bodies such as SFDA, SASO (Saber), and ZATCA.
• Well-versed in customs procedures, freight forwarding, and import compliance protocols.

Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency in both Arabic and English languages, both written and verbal.
• Advanced skills in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and Power BI for data analysis and reporting.
• Strong communication and relationship management capabilities for effective stakeholder engagement.
• In-depth understanding of import logistics, customs clearance processes, and regulatory frameworks.
• Strong analytical thinking, organizational skills, and problem-solving ability.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic environment and deliver results within deadlines.
• Leadership qualities demonstrating resilience and a proactive approach to continuous improvement.

Leadership Approach

The ideal candidate is motivated by achieving excellent outcomes and serves as a role model through both results and determination. They actively seek improved methods and collaborate effectively with others. Personal accountability for wellbeing and quality of work is essential, along with a customer-centric mindset and humility combined with situational awareness informed by data and evidence to identify improvement opportunities.

Inclusion Statement

Unilever values equity, diversity, and inclusion as vital to business success and creating a positive future. We welcome candidates to bring their whole selves and encourage applicants to notify us of any support or accommodations needed during the recruitment process.