Customs Clearance Manager

Role summary We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Customs Clearance Manager to lead customs clearance operations for import, transit, and export shipments across Afghanistan. This is a critical role responsible for ensuring the efficient, compliant, and cost-effective movement of project equipment and materials while maintaining the highest standards of regulatory compliance and operational excellence. The successful candidate will work closely with government authorities, customs brokers, logistics service providers, and cross-functional teams to ensure uninterrupted supply chain operations and successful project delivery. Duties and responsibilities Lead and manage the end-to-end customs clearance process for all import, transit, and export shipments, including air freight and cross-border trucking. Ensure timely, accurate, compliant, and cost-effective customs clearance of project equipment and materials. Prepare, review, and validate all customs documentation, including commercial invoices, packing lists, Air Waybills (AWB), CMRs, certificates of origin, import permits, and licenses. Manage HS code classification, customs valuation, duty and tax calculations, and applications for tariff exemptions and duty relief. Resolve customs inspections, document queries, shipment detentions, disputes, and appeals while minimizing operational delays. Select, onboard, and manage customs brokers and clearing agents, ensuring strong performance against service levels, compliance standards, clearance lead times, and cost targets. Monitor shipment progress and proactively identify risks such as border closures, congestion, policy changes, or customs delays, implementing timely mitigation measures. Track developments in Afghanistan customs regulations, border operations, and trade policies, adjusting customs strategies and logistics routes accordingly. Build and maintain effective working relationships with the Afghanistan Customs Department, Ministry of Finance, border authorities, and other relevant government agencies. Ensure full compliance with customs regulations, trade compliance requirements, sanctions and export control regulations, internal policies, and anti-bribery standards. Maintain complete customs records and support internal and external compliance audits. Provide customs clearance expertise during logistics planning, supply chain design, and project bidding to improve delivery performance and customer satisfaction. Coach, mentor, and develop the customs clearance capability of local teams and logistics partners through training and continuous improvement initiatives. Job requirements Education Bachelor's degree or higher in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Customs Administration, or a related discipline. Professional Experience Minimum 5 years of experience in customs clearance, freight forwarding, or import/export operations. At least 2 years in a supervisory or management role. Experience handling customs clearance for telecommunications or ICT equipment is highly preferred. Strong understanding of end-to-end supply chain operations, logistics planning, shipment management, and inventory processes. Required Skills & Competencies Extensive knowledge of Afghanistan customs laws, regulations, and clearance procedures. Hands-on experience with ASYCUDA and customs operations across key border crossings, including Torkham, Spin Boldak (Chaman), Islam Qala, and Hairatan , as well as regional transit corridors through Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asia. Strong expertise in: HS Code Classification Customs Valuation Duty & Tax Calculation Tariff Exemptions and Duty Relief Proven experience managing customs brokers and third-party clearing agents. Excellent negotiation, analytical, and problem-solving skills, particularly in resolving customs inspections, disputes, and shipment delays. Strong reporting and data analysis capabilities with the ability to identify operational challenges and implement effective solutions. Excellent stakeholder management and communication skills, with experience engaging government authorities and cross-functional teams. Ability to perform effectively in a dynamic, fast-changing regulatory environment. High level of integrity with a strong commitment to compliance, ethical business practices, and anti-bribery standards. Language Requirements Fluent in English (written and spoken). Proficiency in Dari and Pashto is highly desirable.