Head of Imports in Ipswich

As the Head of Imports, you will play a pivotal role in leading and driving MSC UK’s Import Trade function and help improve customer experience. A key part of this role will be to contribute and lead the UK Agency strategy including TEU growth, revenue, optimisation of vessels and intermodal. Working closely with the Geneva liner department is key to align strategies and best in class products and services for the UK Agency. This role will be in the Head Office in Ipswich and requires extensive domestic and international travel.

In this role, you will be responsible for:

• Develop and implement import strategies to achieve MSC UK’s objectives and financial targets.
• Manage stakeholder relationships by building strong partnerships and working closely with the UK Board to align strategic priorities, influence key decisions, and ensure the successful delivery of business objectives.
• Exhibit effective leadership by providing strategic direction, driving high-performance standards, and ensuring teams remain aligned with organisational objectives and governance requirements.
• Drive performance and revenue results across all import trades and pushing results in intermodal.
• Build strong relationship with MSC liners.
• Collaboration with all MSC agencies globally.
• Maintain strong relationships with domestic and international trade partners, including VIP accounts and developing relationships with key suppliers and commercial port relationships.
• Lead and manage the import team, driving engagement, productivity, and people initiatives.
• Set and manage budgets in alignment with senior stakeholders and MSC Liners.
• Establish and enforce policies and procedures for trade compliance.
• Monitor adherence to international trade laws, customs regulations, and company policies.
• Provide training and support to team members on compliance and operational best practices.
• Optimize logistics and shipping strategies to enhance efficiency and reduce costs whilst maximising the asset.
• Represent MSC UK internationally by attending MSC Geneva agency meetings and overseas visits to strengthen collaboration and brand presence.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with Trade, Sales, Customer Service, Operations, HR, IT, and Finance teams to deliver integrated business solutions.
• Facilitate senior management meetings to review KPIs and align actions with company strategy.
• Represent the function in monthly senior executive forums and lead cross-departmental projects.
• Conduct market analysis to inform strategy and maintain awareness of industry trends and competitor activity.
• Perform risk assessments and develop contingency plans for trade disruptions.
• Advance MSC’s market-leading position by promoting and evolving its value proposition.

Skills and experience you’ll bring to us:

• Proven experience in senior logistics and commercial leadership roles.
• Expertise in global import regulations, compliance, and international trade laws.
• Strategic planning and delivery of customer service evolution.
• Strong stakeholder management and communication skills across all levels.
• End-to-end import operations management, including documentation and Incoterms.
• Supplier and vendor relationship management with effective negotiation skills.
• Ability to thrive under pressure and prioritise tasks effectively.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams and global stakeholders to achieve shared objectives.
• Visionary approach with strong analytical and data-driven decision-making.
• Commercial awareness and cost optimization within import functions.
• Leadership and team development in fast-paced environments.
• Risk management and problem-solving in complex supply chains.
• Excellent presentation and influencing skills.

What we offer:

• Private Health & Dental (Family Cover).
• Company Car (with Fuel).
• Life Assurance.
• 25 days rising to 27 + a day to take on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve.
• Free parking.
• Discounted gym membership.
• Cycle to work scheme.
• Flu vaccines and eye care vouchers.
• Buy or sell holiday scheme.
• Christmas club saving.
• MSC Cruises friends and family discount.
• Full induction day and training provided.
• Learning and development opportunities.
• Dress for the day policy/modern office environment.

We pride ourselves on being the employer of choice within our industry. We are a family company and our family values feed into everything we do. We are passionate about what we do, we challenge ourselves to achieve excellence and we are tenacious in overcoming obstacles. Through working together with passion and enthusiasm, we provide a unique experience for our customers. We are in continuous evolution. We strive for the most innovative solutions to embrace change, always respecting safety, and the environment. Our mission is to provide our people with personal fulfilment and enrichment. We are committed to sharing our knowledge, delivering training and support, enabling our people’s professional growth. We ensure fair opportunities through providing long-term career development, embracing diversity, and valuing all cultures. Diversity brings strengths through different viewpoints, experiences & approaches.

Please submit your application via our vacancy page and we will be in touch on next steps.