Import Associate

Duty Post: Batangas Factory, LIMA Estate, Malvar
Work Arrangement: Hybrid 
Department: Global Supply Chain – Manufacturing Services
Contract Type: Temporary
Reporting to: Logistics Manager / Manufacturing Services Manager

Import Associate

The Import Associate is responsible for ensuring the timely, compliant, and cost-effective importation of materials critical to manufacturing operations. This role coordinates end-to-end import activities, customs requirements, and logistics execution to support uninterrupted supply and operational efficiency.

This position works closely with internal stakeholders, carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, BOC, PEZA, and 4PL partners to manage shipment execution, resolve logistics issues, and ensure compliance with regulatory and company requirements.

As an Import Associate, you will:

• Manage end-to-end import and customs activities for raw materials, leaf, NTM, samples, spare parts, and machinery components.
• Coordinate with carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, BOC, PEZA, 4PL providers, and internal stakeholders to ensure timely and compliant shipment execution.
• Monitor shipment status, manage logistics risks, and resolve delays, demurrage, detention, and destination-related issues.
• Utilize logistics systems and tools to support freight booking, shipment visibility, and inbound transportation planning.
• Prepare and maintain import documentation, customs permits, shipment records, and regulatory requirements.
• Maintain logistics reports, shipment tracking dashboards, KPIs, billing records, and cost monitoring reports.
• Validate invoices, monitor vendor payments, and maintain audit-ready records and documentation.
• Drive continuous improvement initiatives to enhance logistics efficiency, service quality, compliance, and cost management.
• Collaborate across Supply Chain, Procurement, Manufacturing, and external partners to ensure uninterrupted supply.
• Ensure compliance with EHS standards, labor regulations, company policies, and safe work practices.

Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Customs Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, Business, or a related field.
• 1–3 years of experience in import/export operations, customs brokerage, freight forwarding, or logistics.
• Knowledge of import documentation, customs clearance processes, and international logistics operations.
• Experience coordinating with carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers, BOC, PEZA, or other regulatory agencies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, particularly Excel, Outlook, and PowerPoint.
• Exposure to SAP, WMS, MyTower, or similar ERP and logistics systems is an advantage.
• Strong coordination, stakeholder management, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to work effectively across multiple internal and external stakeholders.
• High attention to detail, strong compliance mindset, and commitment to execution excellence.

What to Expect?

• At JTI, you will play a critical role in ensuring the uninterrupted flow of materials that support manufacturing operations and business performance. You will work closely with Supply Chain, Manufacturing, Procurement, Logistics partners, BOC, PEZA, and other key stakeholders in a dynamic and collaborative environment.
• This role offers valuable exposure to international logistics, customs compliance, trade regulations, transportation management, and end-to-end import operations, while providing opportunities to contribute to process improvements and supply chain optimization within a global FMCG organization.