Background

PAC Advisors is a leading advisory firm with a wealth of experience and expertise in supporting African SMEs and Corporate Institutions. Our comprehensive range of integrated and innovative business advisory services includes strategic planning, human capital advisory, training and development, financial and accounting advisory, and more. With a focus on max...

The Imports Officer will effectively and efficiently coordinate all Import shipment Customs clearance and handling at various points including JKIA, ICD, Container Freight Stations, and Border points. Professionally support logistics functions in compliance with client, customs, and all regulatory authorities’ requirements, with a heavy emphasis on accurate tariff application and rules of origin.

Key Responsibilities

Customs Compliance and Tariff Classification

• Ensure all import processes adhere strictly to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), and other relevant statutory regulations.
• Apply the Customs Tariff Book to ensure the correct classification of imported and exported goods to determine applicable duties and taxes.
• Utilize a deep understanding of East African Community Customs Management Act (EACMA) Rules of Origin to verify the eligibility of goods for preferential treatment.
• Ensure 100% compliance with shipment documents as per regulatory requirements.

Documentation and System Management

• Prepare, review, and process all import-specific documentation including Bills of Lading, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, and Customs declarations.
• Generate clearance documents and capture Import Declaration Forms and Import entries accurately in the customs system.
• Accurately update internal systems with all arrival dates and documentation status.
• Manage the dispatch of internal and external import documentation, ensuring proper receipt and delivery signatures are obtained.

Liaison and Tracking

• Act as the primary point of contact with port authorities, shipping lines, and clearing agents to expedite the clearance of imported cargo.
• Maintain real-time tracking of incoming shipments and provide regular updates to the management team regarding arrival timelines and potential logistical bottlenecks.
• Proactively identify and resolve issues related to missing documentation, port charges, or logistical bottlenecks.

Qualifications & Experience

• A Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Clearing and Forwarding, or a related field.
• Must be Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS) trained with proven proficiency in using the system for entries.
• Certification in Customs Administration or Business Management. An East Africa Customs Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificate (EACFFPC) is an added advantage.
• At least 2–3 years of hands-on experience specifically in import operations or customs documentation management.
• Expert-level understanding of EACMA Rules of Origin, the Customs Tariff Book, and Incoterms.

• Ensure all import processes adhere strictly to the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA), Kenya Ports Authority (KPA), and other relevant statutory regulations.
• Apply the Customs Tariff Book to ensure the correct classification of imported and exported goods to determine applicable duties and taxes.
• Utilize a deep understanding of East African Community Customs Management Act (EACMA) Rules of Origin to verify the eligibility of goods for preferential treatment.
• Ensure 100% compliance with shipment documents as per regulatory requirements.
• Prepare, review, and process all import-specific documentation including Bills of Lading, Commercial Invoices, Packing Lists, and Customs declarations.
• Generate clearance documents and capture Import Declaration Forms and Import entries accurately in the customs system.
• Accurately update internal systems with all arrival dates and documentation status.
• Manage the dispatch of internal and external import documentation, ensuring proper receipt and delivery signatures are obtained.
• Act as the primary point of contact with port authorities, shipping lines, and clearing agents to expedite the clearance of imported cargo.
• Maintain real-time tracking of incoming shipments and provide regular updates to the management team regarding arrival timelines and potential logistical bottlenecks.
• Proactively identify and resolve issues related to missing documentation, port charges, or logistical bottlenecks.

• Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS) proficiency
• Proficiency in using customs systems for entries
• Expert-level understanding of EACMA Rules of Origin
• Expert-level understanding of the Customs Tariff Book
• Expert-level understanding of Incoterms

• Diploma or Degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Clearing and Forwarding, or a related field.
• Must be Integrated Customs Management System (ICMS) trained.
• Certification in Customs Administration or Business Management.
• An East Africa Customs Freight Forwarding Practicing Certificate (EACFFPC) is an added advantage.