Import Export Operations

We are a leading chemical company, with the best teams developing intelligent solutions for our customers, and for a sustainable future.

We connect and develop people with diverse talents all over the world. For you, this means a variety of ways to progress.

Not only your performance but also your personality matter to us, regardless of gender, age, ethnicity, orientation, and background. At BASF, careers develop from opportunities.

Ojectives of the Position :

• Manage the import/export operations from the perspective of customer centricity and efficient operations through monitoring of key regional and country KPIs such as In-time Clearances, Feedback Rates, Documentation, etc
• Drive Service Provider (3 PL) management for efficient and cost-effective operations.
• Monitor and optimize cost for import operations.
• Improve services of Business units and maintain same as per SLAs agreed.
• Maintain good relations with the Port Authorities / carriers and represent BASF as and when required.
• Ensure Import/ Export Operations is managed smoothly, and possible actions put in place to ensure uninterrupted business continuity.
• Implement Regional Projects and drive digital initiatives in Import/ Export Operations.
• Implementation of risk mitigation plans and controls for the department
• Establishe/utilize tools to provide transparency to cost to serve and the optimization of the cost structures
• Liaison between service providers, Hub as single point of contact to manage exceptions and or escalations
• Steer and jointly review with operation teams for defining, monitor and analyze logistics service provider performance against target KPI's
• Ensure import documents are tracked through SAP report and are getting downloaded well in advance before vessel arrival.

Main Tasks :

1. Import Operations & Logistics

• Manage end-to-end import process of chemicals (hazardous and non-hazardous).
• Coordinate with international suppliers, freight forwarders, and shipping lines for timely deliveries.
• Track and monitor shipments to ensure on-time arrival and minimize delays.

2. Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Indian laws and international regulations related to chemical imports:
• DGFT licensing & IEC
• Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF)
• Chemical Handling Regulations
• Hazardous Waste (Management & Handling) Rules
• REACH, CLP, GHS (for applicable chemicals)
• FSSAI/BIS/MSDS documentation (if required)

3. Documentation & Customs

• Verify all import-related documentation:
• Bill of Lading
• Invoice & Packing List
• Material Safety Data Sheet (MSDS)
• Certificate of Analysis (COA)
• Certificate of Origin
• Import Licenses & Registration (if required)
• Liaise with CHA (Customs House Agent) for clearance and classification under proper HS codes.

4. Supplier & Freight Coordination

• Develop and maintain strong relationships with chemical suppliers and logistics partners.
• Negotiate freight rates, incoterms, and delivery terms for cost optimization.

5. Safety & Storage Coordination

• Ensure proper compliance for transportation and storage of hazardous chemicals post-import.
• Coordinate with warehouse and safety teams for appropriate handling, labelling, and inventory.

6. Cost Control & Budgeting

• Monitor and control landed costs including customs duties, freight, insurance, and warehousing.
• Analyse and report cost trends and opportunities for duty savings.

7. Internal Coordination

• Work closely with regulatory affairs, QA/QC, procurement, and production teams to ensure timely availability of imported materials.
• Collaborate with finance team for vendor payments, LCs, and BOE (Bill of Entry) reconciliation.

Technical & Professional Knowledge:

• In-depth understanding of chemical import regulations in India
• Knowledge of hazardous goods handling and international shipping norms
• In-depth knowledge of Indian import laws and regulations (DGFT, Customs, GST, etc.)
• Experience with import documentation and customs clearance processes
• Experience with SAP or other ERP systems
• Strong negotiation and vendor management skills
• Excellent communication and coordination skills
• Attention to detail, especially regarding compliance and safety
• Familiarity with REACH, GHS, and DGFT/Customs requirements
• Proficiency in MS Office, especially Excel.

Job-related preferred skills:

• Strong stakeholder management skills, including coordination with internal departments, service providers, and government agencies.
• Ability to develop and implement SOPs and conduct internal audits/health checks.
• Training and capability-building experience for internal teams on customs and EXIM matters.
• Familiarity with international trade practices and global compliance standards.
• Experience in digital transformation projects related to customs and trade compliance

Travel required for the position:

Travel: Visits to various customs ports. Customs Offices, DGFT and Other Government Offices

Minimum Education and qualification required for the Position:

• Post graduation Diploma in International Trade / EXIM / Supply Chain
• Minimum 8 to 10 years of experience in Import Operations preferably in the chemical, Agro, pharmaceutical, Nutrition sectors.
• Proven track record of managing end-to-end import operations and compliance.
• Experience in handling audits, investigations, and litigation under Customs, DGFT, and other allied regulations.
• Exposure to working with Shipping Lines / CHA / Transporters Etc.