Senior Import Supply Chain Planner

Working for a major Highstreet clothing and footwear retailer as part of the Global Freight Management team. Working within the import supply chain planning team, you will collaborate with the Product Development, Merchandising, Finance and DC teams as well as our freight forwarding partners, to facilitate the smooth flow of shipping of private label brands including Pink Soda, Sonneti, Supply & Demand along with licensed brands such as Reebok and Fila. Critical role in managing and optimising the inbound flow of goods from international suppliers, ensuring timely delivery, whilst minimising costs and risks. Accountabilities, Tasks and Requirements: Main Accountabilities and Tasks: Comply with all company Health and Safety policies and procedures, ensuring a safe working environment for all and always work within defined safety areas. Line Management responsibility of the Import Supply Chain Planners and Assistant Planners. Managing import plans – ensuring the alignment with demand forecasts and inventory targets. Identify potential disruptions (e.g. port delays/geopolitical issues) and working with freight forwarder and internal stakeholders to develop contingency plans. Coordinate with global suppliers, freight forwarders and customs teams to ensure timely and compliant importation of goods. Forecast demand using historical data, market trends and sales projections. Managing duties, tariffs and trade compliance issues. Oversee documentation compliance such as bills of lading, commercial invoices and customs declarations. Supplier and stakeholder collaboration – build strong relationships with overseas suppliers and internal teams (merchandising, product development, finance). Performance monitor our factories, forwarders and haulers, optimizing on-time, in full deliveries. Resolve supply chain disruptions and elevate issues when necessary. Analyse supply chain performance metrics (e.g. lead times, fill rates, landed costs) CI projects – recommend and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency and reduce costs. To be responsible for the day-to-day control of the workflow and organisation of the team to ensure that the standards of performance, attendance, quality, housekeeping and conduct are met. To provide on the job support and coaching for team members to enable them to achieve the required standard of performance and behaviours To deputise in the absence of the Group Freight Manager, ensuring that continuity of service is continued to the same standards Manage day-to-day people issues including Return To Work, Time & Attendance, holidays and support disciplinary and grievance procedures where necessary. To participate in any other reasonable duties in line with the needs of the business Position Requirements – mandatory: Experience of supply chain – focus on international imports Understanding of Incoterms, HS codes and customs procedures. Excellent interpersonal skills, able to quickly build effective relationships with stakeholders across the business High level of resilience, strong attention to detail and organizational skills. Analytical thinking and problem solving, strategic mindset with hands on approach Flexible, comfortable to manage change and be adaptable in our fast-paced, dynamic and growing business Ability to work on multiple priorities under pressure – very organized and ability to plan and prioritise tasks Able to work to tight deadlines Enjoys problem solving/issue resolution Strong experience in using Word, Excel and PowerPoint Position Requirements – desirable: Knowledge of import and export processes including shipping processes Awareness of the importance of accurate classifications with knowledge on the complexities required for the customs classification of goods Experience working in a retail environment. Further Background Information Line Manager: Also working with: Group Freight Manager Product Development, Merchandising, Finance, Warehouse Booking teams, International Suppliers, Multiple Freight Forwarders #J-18808-Ljbffr