Imports Operations Manager

We are currently recruiting for an Imports Operations Manager for a locally owned and operated freight forwarding company in Saratoga County, NY. The Import Operations Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the Import Department while ensuring exceptional customer service, operational efficiency, regulatory compliance, and employee development. This role provides leadership and support to import operations personnel, manages departmental performance, drives continuous improvement initiatives, and serves as a key resource for customers, agents, vendors, and internal stakeholders.

The successful candidate will possess strong freight forwarding and import logistics expertise, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to balance operational demands with strategic business objectives.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Leadership

• Oversee daily import operations to ensure timely and accurate shipment processing.

• Assist with customer service issues, inquiries, and problem resolution.

• Manage and balance departmental workloads, including coverage during employee absences.

• Evaluate operational efficiency and recommend process improvements.

• Handle operations for key customer accounts and provide operational support during peak workload periods.

• Ensure departmental procedures are followed, updated, and implemented as necessary.

• Identify opportunities to improve departmental and corporate profitability.

Team Management & Development

• Lead, motivate, and develop import operations personnel.

• Coordinate employee schedules, vacation requests, and attendance matters.

• Train new employees and support ongoing professional development of existing staff.

• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide coaching and feedback.

• Address performance and behavioral issues, including disciplinary actions when necessary.

• Conduct monthly departmental meetings and communicate company initiatives and objectives.

Customer & Vendor Relations

• Assist in developing customer profiles and assigning appropriate operational resources.

• Support customer consultation projects and special initiatives.

• Accompany Sales personnel on customer visits when operational expertise is needed.

• Manage and resolve issues involving overseas agents, carriers, and service providers.

• Participate in customer entertainment and relationship-building activities as requested.

Compliance & Technical Support

• Assist with technical, billing, and legal matters related to import operations.

• Monitor industry trends, regulatory changes, and market developments to assess potential impacts on company operations and customer supply chains.

• Recommend proactive solutions to address emerging industry challenges.

• Identify risks and opportunities to minimize service disruptions and improve business continuity.

Strategic Support

• Collaborate closely with the Director of Imports to support departmental goals and company initiatives.

• Identify areas for operational improvement and increased efficiency.

• Contribute to long-term planning and strategic growth initiatives.

Qualifications:

Required

• 5+ years of experience in international freight forwarding, import operations, or logistics management.

• Previous supervisory or management experience.

• Knowledge of ocean and air import operations.

• Understanding of U.S. Customs regulations and international trade practices.

• Excellent customer service, communication, and problem-solving skills.

• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

• Proficiency with freight forwarding software and Microsoft Office applications.

• Experience managing high-volume import operations.

Benefits

• Health and dental insurance

• 401k with a match

• Flextime and PTO

• Positive and collaborative work environment

• Growth and learning opportunities

Compensation

• $95,000 – $115,000 annually

Garnet River® is a full-service information technology and staffing company that customizes solutions for its clients. We solve challenges through staff augmentation, project-based teams and technical solutions. Our staffing division works as a recruiting arm for companies in the region and across the country. Clients turn to us to help them find professional talent.

Garnet River LLC is an Equal Employment opportunity/Affirmative Action (EEO/AA) employer. Minorities/Female/Disabled/Veteran (M/F/D/V)