Ocean Import Manager

SUMMARY

The Ocean Import Manager will coordinate and serve as the main point of contact for all inbound freight, 

managing the process from origin to final delivery. This role owns carrier and RFP management, container 

tracking, regulatory compliance, and risk mitigation, while providing exceptional service to internal stakeholders 

and Distribution Centers.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Coordinate and manage the timely movement of inbound ocean freight, serving as the primary point of 

contact for the Import department 

• Own container scheduling, consolidation, tracking, and reporting

• Review ETA information daily and provide proactive alerts when delays are expected

• Manage daily reporting and other data entry activities in an accurate and timely manner, to ensure that 

the import database is kept updated 

• Manage risk across the import supply chain, including port delays, carrier disruptions, and compliance 

exposure

• Monitor industry and market trends and analyze data to prepare forecasts and get ahead of potential 

import risks; present findings and recommendations to key stakeholders 

• Coordinate the release of goods from customs, carriers, and government agencies, ensuring all holds are 

cleared prior to discharge and containers are released from the Distribution Centers within carrierallotted free time

• Identify problem shipments early and coordinate resolution and implementation of solutions with 

internal and external stakeholders

• Build and strengthen relationships with carriers, suppliers, and freight forwarders to improve pricing, 

service levels, and reliability

• Manage the RFP process and annual carrier contract reviews, including rate negotiation, proposal 

development, and recommendations to senior leadership

• Oversee seized inventory and determine to keep or discard; suggest appropriate actions to the 

leadership team and coordinate accordingly 

• Complete Importer Security Filings (ISF) when required, and review/submit import documentation to 

customs brokers for ocean and air shipments

• Maintain regulatory compliance knowledge, including Harmonized Tariff Schedule (HTS) classification 

and tariff/trade policy changes affecting landed cost

• Review and approve invoices from brokers, carriers, and truckers in a timely manner

• Direct communication with Purchasing Team to align on domestic freight tracking

• Coordinate with our Taipei, Taiwan office regarding space usage and shipment planning

• Work closely with transportation providers to confirm shipping space, ETAs, routing, port releases, 

delivery appointments, and empty container returns

• Maintain knowledge of KSI services and products, and assume other duties as assigned as business 

needs change

QUALIFICATIONS & KEY COMPETENCIES

• Bachelor's degree in Business Management, Supply Chain Management, or a related field preferred, but 

not mandatory with equivalent work experience.

• 5+ years of Ocean Import experience, or in a similar role

• Experience in International Logistics and Supply Chain

• Working knowledge of HTS classification, tariff schedules, and import regulatory compliance.

• MS Excel skills and knowledge (advanced level of understanding or above), and strong working 

knowledge of MS Word and other M365 apps

• Proactive approach with high standards, sound judgment, and strong attention to detail

• Strong communication, interpersonal, organizational, and multi-tasking skills

• Ability to deliver accurate, consistent information under time pressure.

• Ability to adapt quickly to changing business and environmental conditions

KEY COMPETENCIES

• Analytical/Data-Driven 

Decision Making

• Professionalism • Accountability • Reliability

• Communication • Adaptability • Integrity • Attention to Detail

PHYSICAL DEMANDS & WORK ENVIRONMENT

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is required to constantly use hands to finger, handle, or 

feel objects, tools, or controls; reach with hands and arms; and talk or hear.

• Ability to lift/pull/move up to 15 pounds, occasionally

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, kneel frequently throughout the workday

• Primarily sedentary office work, performed in a professional office or hybrid/remote setting, requiring 

prolonged periods of sitting and frequent use of standard office equipment

• Ability to communicate effectively in person, by phone, and via electronic communication

• Vision requirements include close vision, distance vision, and the ability to adjust focus

• The noise level in the work environment is usually low 

The physical demands and work environment characteristics described here are representative of those that 

must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Reasonable 

accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.