Import-Export & Procurement Specialist, Cotonou (Benin Republic)

Location: Cotonou, Benin Republic

**About the Role:

We are currently seeking a highly skilled Import-Export & Procurement Specialist to oversee customs operations, logistics, and strategic procurement in Benin Republic. This role is essential for ensuring compliance, optimizing costs, and enhancing operational efficiency.

• Import-Export Operations & Customs Compliance

• Manage import and export flows across multiple countries (Benin, Togo, Burkina Faso, Ghana, etc.).
• Ensure full compliance with customs regulations and tariff classifications to mitigate risks.
• Handle customs and shipping documentation (certificates of origin, invoices, landing factors, transit and clearance documents).
• Collaborate with freight forwarders and customs authorities to streamline operations and negotiate duty exemptions when applicable.
• Monitor and optimize costs related to customs duties, incoterms, and insurance logistics.

• Procurement & Vendor Management

• Manage the procurement of goods and services across all business operations (office equipment, operational supplies, external services, cleaning, shop insurance, IT equipment, branding, etc.).
• Manage the end-to-end procurement cycle, from supplier selection and contract negotiation to performance tracking.
• Identify cost-saving opportunities and optimize expenditure.
• Develop and maintain strong supplier relationships, ensuring quality, reliability, and competitive pricing.
• Ensure all purchases comply with internal policies and regulatory requirements.

• Performance Tracking & Process Optimization

• Develop dashboards and provide accurate reporting on procurement, logistics costs, and stock management.
• Implement process automation tools to improve purchasing and import-export operations.
• Work closely with finance, logistics, and marketing teams to enhance data integration and traceability.
• Manage new product introductions, ensuring compliance with customs regulations and potential exemptions.
• Oversee all import and export activities in alignment with customs requirements.

• Bachelor's degree in Logistics & Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Procurement, Business Administration, or a closely related discipline.
• Minimum 3 years of experience in procurement, supply chain, import-export, or international logistics.
• Good knowledge of West African customs and tax procedures.
• Proven track record in strategic procurement and supplier negotiations.
• Proficiency in SAP (procurement, inventory, and logistics management).
• Good Excel skills (pivot tables, advanced data knowledge).
• In-depth knowledge of Incoterms, tariff classifications, and customs regulations.
• Experience in cost optimization and contract management.
• Fluency in French & English (written and spoken) is essential for managing supplier and partner relationships.
• Strategic mindset to identify process optimization opportunities.
• Attention to detail & compliance focus to prevent disputes and ensure regulatory adherence.
• Proactive & innovative approach to explore cost-saving strategies and duty exemptions.

• Professional growth in a dynamic, rapidly expanding, high-social-impact industry
• An open-minded, collaborative culture made up of enthusiastic colleagues who are driven by the challenge of innovation towards profound impact on people and the planet.
• A truly multicultural experience: you will have the chance to work with and learn from people from different geographies, nationalities, and backgrounds.
• Structured, tailored learning and development programs that help you become a better leader, manager, and professional through the Sun Center for Leadership.