Support & Customs Coordinator in Bristol

About the position

GEA is one of the world’s largest systems suppliers for the food, beverage and pharmaceutical sectors. Our portfolio includes machinery and plants as well as advanced process technology, components and comprehensive services. Guided by a strong sense of purpose, our more than 18,000 dedicated employees work to enhance the sustainability and efficiency of production processes globally.

Your responsibilities and tasks

This role is responsible for ensuring the smooth, compliant, and efficient movement of goods between suppliers and customers, covering all import and export activities for GEA Farm Technologies UK.

Import & Export Management

• Manage all import and export processes for GEA FT UK, including new equipment and spare parts
• Book freight, arrange deliveries/collections, and resolve issues or delays affecting customer shipments.
• Handle warranty, damaged goods, and other returns to suppliers.
• Liaise with freight forwarders and agents acting as GEA’s customs intermediaries, ensuring full compliance with GEA guidelines and UK customs requirements.

Documentation & Compliance

• Prepare complete import/export documentation packs (Commercial Invoice, Packing List, C88, E2, DEVD, Valuation details, Certificates of Origin, etc.) in line with internal procedures and international regulations.
• Create and manage export certificates (EUR1, ATR, Certificate of Origin) following HMRC rules.
• Issue import customs clearance instructions and arrange correction of any incorrectly submitted data within 14 days.
• Respond to HMRC information requests and ensure adherence to changing regulations, laws, and customs procedures.
• Coordinate with Finance to support timely payments to freight forwarders and prevent clearance delays.
• Approve duty, VAT, and other import/export charges.
• Obtain monthly MSS data and support Finance with VAT and Duty reconciliations.
• Review freight forwarder charges regularly and review any concerns.

Process Management & Internal Support

• Work with the Technical team to assign/update commodity codes.
• Develop, document, and continuously improve import/export processes.
• Serve as the internal subject‑matter expert on all import/export matters.

Your profile and qualifications

• Experience in import/export operations and customs compliance (UK/EU).
• Strong knowledge of HMRC regulations, documentation, and customs procedures.
• Familiarity with freight forwarding, logistics processes, and customs intermediaries.
• Competent in SAP or similar ERP systems.
• Excellent attention to detail, accuracy, and problem‑solving skills.
• Strong communication and coordination skills with suppliers, freight partners, and internal teams.
• Ability to work under pressure, manage deadlines, and handle multiple shipments at once.
• Proficient in MS Office, particularly Excel.

About GEA

GEA is one of the largest suppliers for the food and beverage processing industry and a wide range of other process industries. Approximately 18,000 employees in more than 60 countries contribute significantly to GEA’s success – come and join them! We offer interesting and challenging tasks, a positive working environment in international teams and opportunities for personal development and growth in a global company.

GEA is an equal opportunity employer. Applicants will therefore receive consideration for employment without regard to age, sex, race, color, religion, world view, national origin, genetics, disability, gender identity, marital status, sexual orientation, veteran status or any other protected characteristic required by applicable law. Applicants with disabilities are welcome and will be given special consideration if they are equally qualified.