Manager Inbound and Customs
Purpose & Overall Relevance:
In this role, you will lead the Inbound Logistics and Customs Operations function for the Pacific cluster. You will oversee the operational flow of products from origin to final destination, ensuring timely, cost-effective, and compliant delivery to adidas distribution centers or directly to customers. You will work closely with Customer Service, Sales, and Supply Chain teams to drive efficiency, enhance visibility, and support business growth.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead the efficient, timely flow of products from factories to distribution centers (DCs) or direct-to-customer shipments.
- Oversee the scheduling, tracking, and status updates of inbound shipments, ensuring on-time and in-good-condition arrivals.
- Manage relationships and negotiations with shipping lines and inbound service providers.
- Develop and maintain shipping instructions and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for all inbound shipments.
- Provide inbound forecasts and visibility to internal and external stakeholders across the Supply Chain.
- Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for service providers; run Quarterly and Monthly Business Reviews (QBR/MBR) to drive continuous improvement.
- Identify opportunities to optimize inbound logistics processes, reduce lead times, and minimize costs.
- Collaborate with Order Fulfillment teams to prioritize goods based on demand signals, supporting key campaigns and product launches.
- Lead the performance management and development of the inbound logistics team, setting clear goals and conducting regular performance reviews.
- Ensure full compliance with customs regulations and accurate application of Harmonized System (HS) codes.
- Monitor daily port operations, container movements, and storage capacities to avoid delays and minimize detention/demurrage costs.
- Manage claims and resolve product issues efficiently.
- Track and report financial performance, including monthly actuals vs. forecasts, rolling forecasts, and annual budgets.
- Support global logistics projects and tendering processes for new service providers.
- Approve invoices related to origin, transport, and customs services.
- Collaborate with the Outbound Fulfillment team (OBF) to assess airfreight needs and manage associated costs.
Key Relationships:
- Sales
- Direct-to-Consumer, Marketing, Concept to Consumer teams
- Finance
- Supply Chain Management, Distribution Centers, 3PL Partners
- IT
- External Customers
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
- Minimum 6 years of work experience in international logistics; minimum 2 years in a leadership role.
- Strong knowledge of customs clearance processes and international shipping regulations.
- Excellent analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making.
- Ability to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities effectively.
- High proficiency in MS Office and collaboration tools (Teams); SAP and Power BI experience is a strong advantage.
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to influence stakeholders at all levels.
- Expertise in logistics principles, supply chain management, warehousing, and transportation.
- Ability to work independently while fostering collaboration across teams.
Requisite Education and Experience:
- Bachelor’s or higher degree in Supply Chain Management, Logistics, or related field.
- 6+ years of relevant experience in Supply Chain, Logistics, or Operations.
- Experience working in a multinational company environment.
- Minimum 2 years of experience leading and managing teams.
adidas celebrates diversity, supports inclusiveness and encourages individual expression in our workplace. We do not tolerate the harassment or discrimination toward any of our applicants or employees. We are an Equal Opportunity Employer.