Ocean Import Agent

Job Description

Scope of Position

Ensure timely and accurate movement of freight and information, while providing exceptional customer service within the Ocean Import Department.

Major Duties and Responsibilities

• Ensure smooth and timely freight process flow
• Ensure accurate and timely data entry into our operational system
• Track and Trace Ocean Import Files
• Use Global Ocean Import Workflow Monitor on a daily basis
• Ensure documents are timely sent to customer or broker for customs purposes.
• Ensure accurate and timely client and vendors billing.
• Interact with our customers in arranging their international shipments, meeting customer service standards.
• Contribute to maintain good relationships with suppliers (Shipping lines, trucking companies and others involved).
• Meet compliance at all times to regulations internal and external in accordance with government regulations.
• Understand department process flow, and looking for best practices to improve operational efficiency and productivity
• Ensure all customers standard operating procedures in place and updated in customer SOP.
• Meet KPI standards in accordance with the Company’s procedures     
• Overseas communications, timely responses to emails and requests (internal and external)
• Escalation of problems to Management when necessary
• Promote compliance in diligently following all company policies and regulations and performing the task at hand with outstanding integrity and pride. 
• Meets company standards of 52 hours training per year per employee.
• Attend training classes when required.
• Complete mandatory training when required.
• Promote compliance in diligently following all company policies and regulations and performing the task at hand with outstanding integrity and pride. 
• Adhere to the company’s 10 cultural attributes:  Appearance, Attitude, Confidence, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity, Pride, Resolute, Sense of Humour, and Visionary.

Exceptional Customer Service

Exceeds customer expectations by anticipating, understanding and meeting needs. Is proactive and when issues arise, is timely and resolute in solving problems, including escalating to management when necessary. Builds rapport and exhibits empathy during interactions, and consistently strives to improve customer satisfaction with customers. 

 Job Execution

Consistently completes quality work that matches job expectations.  Is committed to operational excellence and continuous improvement for own job function and across the network.  All activities are compliant with company policies/procedures and code of business conduct and with government regulations. 

Reliability

Consistently meets deadlines. Is punctual and can be relied on for planning purposes. Is organized, manages own time effectively and can prioritize.          

Collaboration

Displays a willingness to accomplish not only his/her own job responsibilities without the need for constant prodding but is willing, without request, to aid and assist others to the benefit of the company and/or customers. Works in harmony with superiors and fellow workers without incident or delay.

Communication

Effectively listens to others and communicates (verbal and written) in a professional manner, both internally and externally. Provides relevant and timely information to co-workers, customers and service providers.  Answers phone calls and responds to voicemails, emails and other communication according to Expeditors' standards.

Culture

Exhibits and promotes the company’s 10 cultural attributes: Appearance, Attitude, Confidence, Curiosity, Excellence, Integrity, Pride, Resolute, Sense of Humour, and Visionary.  

Personal Growth and Development

Participates in training within the company’s guidelines, completing at least 52 hours of relevant training per year. Completes required training in a timely manner with minimal reminders. Pursues professional development goals for self, including participating in a development plan as appropriate.

AGENT CORE COMPETENCIES

Timely and Accurate Billing and Accounting

Invoices customers the expected charges timely and accurately and according to Expeditors and customer requirements. Properly provisions service provider charges to avoid reserves. Follows proper credit approval processes in order to minimize risk and protect the company.

Timely and Accurate Data Entry

Ensures accurate and timely data entry into our operational systems according to Expeditors' operational procedures and customer requirements. Monitors exception reports for quick data integrity resolution.

Timely and Accurate Shipment Processing

Ensures smooth and timely freight process flow according to Expeditors' operational procedures. Follows customer's standard operating procedures and proactively notifies customers of any issues. Consistently meets KPI standards, as per company's procedures.

Knowledge:

• Understanding of ocean documentation process a plus
• Hazardous Materials certification (preferred)
• Understanding of Expeditors systems and procedures

Skills:

• Effective interpersonal skills, including proven abilities to listen, comprehend, effectively communicate and concisely obtain positive results
• Pro-active and strong organizational skills
• Good computer skills (Microsoft Office)
• Fluent in English

Behaviours:

• Positive and willing to help attitude

Qualifications

TRAINING AND QUALIFICATIONS:

Training Requirements:

• Meet company standards of 52 hours training per year, including as needed management/leadership training

Education and Experience:

• 6 months to 1 year related experience and/or training; or equivalent combination of education and experience

• Effective interpersonal skills.
• Good computer skills (Excel, Word, PowerPoint)
• Attention to Detail

Additional Information

Expeditors offers excellent benefits

• Private Medical Insurance
• Pension Scheme
• Life Assurance
• Bike to work scheme
• Employee Stock Purchase Plan 
• Training and Personnel Development Programme

** Must have the right to work in the UK **