Tupande Export Logistics Senior Specialist

About the Role

• The Export Logistics Specialist oversees and manages end-to-end export operations to ensure that goods leave the organization’s facilities and reach international vendors on time, within budget and in full compliance of all agreed regulations; including safety standards.
• The role is focused on planning, coordination, documentation & stakeholder management for all exports handled by Soko.

Responsibilities

Export Operations & Coordination

• Plan, organize, and oversee the entire export process from order placement to delivery at the destination.
• Coordinate with production, warehousing, and procurement teams to ensure accurate and timely order fulfillment.
• Liaise with freight forwarders, carriers, and third-party logistics providers to schedule shipments.
• Track shipments, resolve delays, and ensure smooth cargo movement.

Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare and review all required export documentation (invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, export licenses, etc.).
• Ensure compliance with international trade laws, customs regulations, and organizational policies.
• Maintain accurate records of shipments for audit and reporting purposes.
• Stay updated on changes in export/import regulations, customs procedures, and trade agreements.

Customer & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary point of contact for clients regarding export logistics inquiries.
• Provide timely updates to customers on order and shipment status.
• Resolve customer complaints, shipment issues, or documentation errors promptly.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with shipping agents, port authorities, and regulatory agencies.

Performance Management

• Negotiate shipping rates and terms with carriers and freight forwarders to optimize costs.
• Analyze export logistics performance and recommend process improvements for efficiency and cost savings.

Reconditioning

• Support and coordinate container reconditioning logistics when overseas regulators identify non-compliance issues.
• Ensure all reconditioning processes follow approved SOPs and documentation standards before goods are released to buyers.
• Maintain close communication with third-party service providers managing sterilization or product rework.

Supply Chain Traceability

• Ensure all exported goods have a clear, verifiable origin and traceable supply chain documentation.
• Work with sourcing and quality teams to build systems that enable end-to-end traceability of export products.
• Maintain audit-ready export documentation, certifications, and inspection records in compliance with global regulatory standards.

Cost efficiency

• Monitor freight costs, customs duties, and tariffs to control budgets.
• Identify opportunities for cost reduction across shipping, warehousing, and handling processes.
• Implement strategies that improve container utilization, reduce demurrage/detention, and optimize route planning.
• Regularly review freight spend and propose cost-saving initiatives without compromising quality or timelines.

Qualifications

Across all roles, these are the general qualifications we look for. For this role specifically, you will have:

• 5+ years of experience in Supply chain, with at least 3 years focusing on Exports.
• Proficiency in export management systems and tracking tools.
• Proficiency in building complex formulas and functions in Google Sheets to support data analysis and reporting.
• Language requirement: English is required. Working knowledge of Swahili is also useful
• Strong planning and organizational skills.
• Excellent communication and coordination abilities.
• Proficient in export management systems and tracking tools.
• Analytical mindset for cost projections and performance tracking.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure.