Operations Team Leader

The Role

• Customs Clearance & Regulatory Compliance
• Manage and oversee all customs clearance operations via third-party customs brokers during the initial phase.
• Coordinate with 3rd party agents for import/export procedures including: - Delivery Order release, Cargo Transfers, Customs Bill of Processing, and inspection scheduling.
• Monitor and validate compliance with UAE customs regulations: - Temporary Importation, Import for Re-export, VAT payments, and refund processes.
• Administer internal records related to Customs Accounts (CDR & DDR), standing guarantees, and temporary imports.
• Review and confirm tariff classifications provided by external brokers to prevent regulatory penalties.
• Liaise with Dubai Customs through third-party agents for inspections, Entry/Exit Certificates, and claim follow-ups.
• Build internal capability to transition customs operations in-house over time: - Develop process documentation, system readiness, and staff training to support the shift. 2. Logistics & Shipment Coordination
• Oversee end-to-end booking processes for all shipments (air, sea, land) and maintain strong coordination with shipping lines, airlines, and freight forwarders.
• Ensure clients are regularly updated about cargo status, delays, and critical documentation.
• Lead coordination of shipments from allocation to final delivery, ensuring timely execution and client satisfaction.
• Supervise warehouse operations (inbound/outbound), store deliveries, returns, and stock transfers.
• Maintain a strong and reliable inland transportation network to ensure efficient local deliveries.
• Work closely with clearance agents and logistics providers to meet service standards and timelines. 3. Documentation & Financial Coordination
• Ensure accurate and timely preparation of all import/export documentation, including Chamber of Commerce and MOFA approvals.
• Review draft documents (BL, AWB, invoices, packing lists, etc.) in coordination with agents, shipping lines, and clients to finalize all documents correctly before issuance.
• Review and approve vendor invoices, ensuring correct data entry and three-way matching in the system.
• Supervise invoice generation for clients, ensuring alignment with contract terms and agreed rate cards.
• Verify freight costs, customs duties, and additional charges before issuing invoices to clients.
• Coordinate with third parties for actions related to customs duty settlements and temporary import/export compliance.
• Provide support to the collection team by following up on payments and ensuring smooth cash flow tracking. 4. Systems & Tools Management
• Manage and oversee the use of operational platforms such as: - Dubai Trade, E-Mirsal 2, CALOGI, DNATA, DP World portals.
• Support system issue resolution and coordinate with IT/technical teams when required.
• Ensure accurate data entry, shipment visibility, and document traceability through digital tools.
• Prepare the team for full internal execution of customs processes via digital platforms in the future. 5. Client & Internal Collaboration
• Represent the company at customs and ports during shipment clearance activities.
• Collaborate with internal departments (Finance, Compliance, Warehouse, Procurement) to ensure operational targets are aligned.
• Enforce compliance with internal SOPs, audit requirements, and control mechanisms.
• Lead, mentor, and develop the operations team to drive continuous improvement and ownership. 6. Relationship Management & Performance Monitoring
• Maintain strong communication with carriers, agents, and service providers to ensure efficiency and accountability.
• Conduct monthly performance review meetings with key logistics partners and vendors.
• Identify service gaps and work proactively with partners to improve delivery timelines and reduce costs.
• Monitor vendor service levels, address escalations, and ensure contractual commitments are met.
  
  

Requirements

• Proven experience in forwarding operations with a minimum of 10 years in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of logistics, shipping processes, and regulatory requirements in the forwarding industry.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and guide a diverse team.
• Proficient in operational software and shipment tracking systems.
• Exceptional problem-solving abilities and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, capable of working with cross-functional teams.
• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment and meet tight deadlines.
• Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, or a related field is preferred.
  
  

About the company

In 2007, NMT GROUP, with 100 % self capital, entered the logistics sector with the establishment of NMT Logistics A.S The group, which has gained deep expertise in national and international transportation, has strengthened its leading position in the logistics sector by offering diversified services. Based in Istanbul, NMT GROUP provides global-scale services with own offices in Izmir and Gaziantep domestically, and in Belgium, China, Hong Kong, and the USA internationally. With his extensive network and agency connections, NMT GROUP has the opportunity to closely monitor all operations. The ecosystem of NMT GROUP encompasses various services such as FCL (full container) and LCL (less than container load) transportation, domestic freight, ship chartering, transit trade transportation, and combined transportation. Additionally, it offers container trading (new and second-hand), leasing, repair, modification, and storage services. Primarily serving high-quality, reliable, and professional services to regions including the Eastern Asia, Middle East, and Mediterranean countries, NMT GROUP extends its services to many regions of Africa, Europe, and America.

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