International Import Manager - Exton - The Food Source International, Inc.

Description

Who We Are

The Food Source International (TFSI) is a taste and ingredient company with a pulse on what's next in the world of food. Founded in 1997, we prioritize high-quality tastes and ingredients that provide unique solutions to the technical challenges food processors face.

We are on a mission to vertically drive the future of taste and deliver critical outcomes for our customers through collaboration, artistry, passion, agility, and accountability. Our passion for improving taste and health in food is at our core. We continue to grow by hiring creative and forward-thinking team members who put the customers' needs first.

Position Summary

The International Import Manager is responsible for leading and optimizing global supply chain operations, ensuring efficient, compliant, and cost‑effective movement of goods across international borders. This role owns the development, execution, and delivery of a comprehensive import compliance manual that will establish the foundation of the company's import operations. The Manager will be a hands on to build and operate day‑to‑day import workflows, drive strategic logistics initiatives, manage international vendor relationships, and ensure adherence to global trade regulations and industry best practices. As the function matures, this role will transition into training, coaching, and managing the import logistics team to support scalable business growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Global Logistics Strategy: Has authority to Develop and implement international logistics strategies and workflows that enhance operational efficiency, ensure shipment visibility, improve cost performance, and support global business expansion.
• Import Compliance Manual Ownership: Develop, execute, and deliver a comprehensive import compliance manual outlining regulatory requirements, procedures, documentation standards, risk controls, and best practices to guide company-wide import activities.
• Day-to-Day Import Operations: Establish, manage, and continuously improve daily import processes, including customs documentation, HS classification, compliance checks, broker coordination, carrier communication, and issue resolution.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure all international logistics and import operations comply with applicable global trade laws, customs regulations, and relevant security and quality standards (including C‑TPAT, ISO, FDA, USDA, and country-specific import rules).
• Vendor & Carrier Management: Select, negotiate, and manage relationships with international freight forwarders, carriers, customs brokers, and 3PL partners. Ensure safe, timely, and cost-effective movement of goods.
• Process Optimization: Leverage logistics management systems, data analytics, and continuous improvement methodologies to streamline processes, increase efficiency, and reduce costs.
• Performance Monitoring: Develop, track, and analyze KPIs for global and import logistics operations, using insights to proactively enhance performance and service levels.
• Transition to Leadership: Build and scale the import logistics department by developing SOPs, performance standards, and training programs. Lead the transition from a hands-on operational role to managing, coaching, and developing a high-performing team.
• Team Leadership & Development: Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate logistics staff, fostering a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and professional development.
• Risk Management: Identify, assess, and mitigate risks across international logistics and import compliance, including geopolitical, operational, regulatory, and security risks.
• Budget Management: Prepare, manage, and monitor the global logistics budget, ensuring all logistics functions operate with financial discipline and cost-effectiveness.
• Customer Focus: Ensure internal and external customer requirements are met, maintaining exceptional service standards and enabling seamless cross-departmental communication.
• Technology & Systems Enablement: Evaluate, implement, and optimize technology solutions that enhance import visibility, compliance accuracy, communication, and end-to-end logistics efficiency.

*Denotes food safety responsibilities

Work Experience

• Minimum 10 years of progressive experience in international logistics, transportation, or supply chain management.
• Demonstrated success in managing global logistics operations, negotiating with international vendors, and implementing process improvements.
• Experience with food transportation and storage preferred.

Qualifications Education

• Bachelor's degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, Business Administration, or a related field.

Certifications (Highly Preferred)

• Certified in Logistics, Transportation and Distribution (CLTD) – APICS/ASCM
• Certified Supply Chain Professional (CSCP) – APICS/ASCM
• Certified Professional Logistician (CPL) – International Society of Logistics (SOLE)
• Certified International Logistics Manager (CILM) – AIBM
• Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) – APICS/ASCM
• SCPro Certification – Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP)
• Project Management Professional (PMP) – PMI (for those managing large-scale projects)

Skills

• Advanced knowledge of international logistics, customs, and trade compliance.
• Strong negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills.
• Proficiency with logistics software and ERP systems.
• Excellent communication and leadership abilities.
• Entrepreneurial mindset and adaptability to global business environments.

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to sit for extended periods, with occasional standing or walking.
• Frequent use of hands and fingers for typing and handling documents.
• Ability to operate a computer and standard office equipment. (e.g., phone, calculator, printer)
• Ability to retain information and communicate information clearly and effectively.
• Ability to visually observe details at close range.
• Ability to travel internationally up to 10% as needed.

Food Safety & Quality Awareness

All employees are expected to follow company Food Safety, Quality, and Regulatory policies as part of our commitment to safe and high-quality food ingredients.

Lead our Core Values

At Food Source International, our culture is shaped by our TASTE core values, which guide every aspect of our work and interactions:

• Trust: Act honestly and deliver reliable, thoughtful experiences that build confidence and loyalty.
• Adaptability: Embrace change and grow continuously by balancing priorities with intention and grace.
• Support: Collaborate and connect to foster creativity, unity, and meaningful relationships.
• Teamwork: Work together seamlessly to uplift, value, and align in pursuit of shared excellence.
• Energy: Anticipate needs and inspire with passion, enthusiasm, and memorable experiences.

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Reports To:

Supervisory responsibilities: Oversite of Logistics Specialists and Logistics Coordinator

Backup: Logistics Specialists

Work environment/Hours:

• The work environment: Typical office setting, with potential for entry into warehouse setting.
• Full-time or part time, Office hours are typically 8:30-5:00pm, Monday-Friday with occasional overtime.

Travel—Limited local travel as needed.

EEO: We are an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other characteristic protected by the law.