Import Coordinator

The Import Coordinator is responsible for managing and coordinating the importation of scientific goods, ensuring compliance with customs regulations and timely delivery. This role involves liaising with suppliers, freight forwarders, and internal teams to facilitate the smooth flow of goods into the UK, particularly those requiring special handling such as temperature-sensitive or regulated scientific products.

Key Responsibilities

• Shipment Coordination
  • Track and manage incoming shipments via air, sea, and road.
  • Liaise with freight forwarders, customs agents, and suppliers to ensure timely delivery.
  • Organise UK domestic transport and airline collections.
• Documentation & Compliance
  • Prepare and review import documentation including invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin.
  • Conduct a thorough and meticulous review of all C88 documentation to ensure the identification and rectification of any errors or omissions.
  • Ensure compliance with UK, International customs regulations and scientific import standards (e.g., MHRA, DEFRA).
  • Maintain accurate records for audits and regulatory inspections.
• Communication
  • Act as the point of contact between suppliers, logistics providers, and internal departments.
  • Resolve delays, discrepancies, or customs issues efficiently.
  • Provide regular updates to internal stakeholders on shipment status.
• Administrative Duties
  • Matching invoices and reconcile queries.
  • Input data into import management systems.
  • Manage import cost tracking.
  • Support the Assistant Buyer team in procurement activities including supplier communications, purchase order management, and ensuring alignment with sourcing strategies and sustainability objectives.

The ideal candidate

• Strong organisational and multitasking abilities.
• Proficiency in freight forwarder track and trace systems.
• Attention to detail and accuracy in documentation.
• Good communication and negotiation skills.
• Familiarity with customs procedures and international trade laws.
• Understanding of scientific product handling and import regulations.
• Experience with temperature-sensitive or hazardous goods is a plus.
• Minimum of 1 years’ experience in import operations.
• Customs entry experience is essential.
• Experience of using ticketing systems such as Freshdesk.
• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced team environment, managing orders, queries and stakeholder requirements concurrently.
• Keen attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem-solving.
• Well-developed interpersonal skills, able to build positive relationships with colleagues, key stakeholders and suppliers.
• Team ethos.
• Competent/computer literate with several Microsoft Office applications and relevant software packages.
• Ability to organise and prioritise workload.
• Excellent communication skills both verbally and in writing, self-motivated and driven.

Nice to have

• Experience in Scientific or Medical Industry.

About us

SLS are the UK’s largest independent supplier of laboratory equipment, chemicals and consumables. Supplying to a wide range of sectors, provides a diverse and interesting customer base as well as providing countless opportunity to grow and expand. With a Nottingham based Head Office, with customers all over the UK, we are a stable and growing company who have an excellent reputation in the market. We proudly supported the NHS and scientific community over the course of the Pandemic as well as supporting the education sector with vital supplies to be able to aid teaching for children affected by school closures. We are passionate about our people and have developed a strong team dynamic who are welcoming and supportive of new individuals joining the company with a brilliant management team to support you as your find your feet in the role. We are also proud to be a Living Wage Employer and committed to equal opportunities and actively promote a diverse and inclusive working environment, and fairness for everyone. Alongside our commitment to your professional and personal development, we also offer a generous benefits package including:

• Competitive salary
• 25 days annual leave plus Bank Holidays
• Hybrid working model – split between home and Nottingham based office
• Company pension
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity leave
• Small, friendly, and sociable teams with staff events
• Company profit bonus schemes
• Cycle2work schemes
• Career opportunities for development and progression

If you’re interested in joining the SLS team, please apply. We look forward to hearing from you!