Customs Clearance Team Leader - Air Freight | Al-Futtaim Automotive | Logistics

Job Requisition ID: 179309

Established in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group today is one of the most diversified and progressive, privately held regional businesses headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Structured into five operating divisions; automotive, financial services, real estate, retail and healthcare; employing more than 35,000 employees across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia and Africa, Al-Futtaim Group partners with over 200 of the world's most admired and innovative brands. Al-Futtaim Group’s entrepreneurship and relentless customer focus enables the organization to continue to grow and expand; responding to the changing needs of our customers within the societies in which we operate.

By upholding our values of respect, excellence, collaboration and integrity; Al-Futtaim Group continues to enrich the lives and aspirations of our customers each and every day

Overview Of The Role:

The Customs Clearance Team Leader is tasked with overseeing and leading the customs clearance operations for air freight import and export shipments in Dubai. They are responsible for ensuring timely, accurate, and compliant processing of all customs and regulatory documentation, playing a crucial role in maintaining operational efficiency. This role demands strong leadership skills to manage a team and to drive compliance, issue resolution, and achieve business priorities. The role is integral to safeguarding documentation, supporting billing and coordination, and ensuring adherence to service standards.

What You Will Do:

• Lead the customs clearance function for air import and export shipments, ensuring timely and compliant processing of customs and regulatory documentation.

• Manage the daily activities of the customs clearance team, including oversight of workflows, accuracy, and efficiency.

• Ensure high accuracy in Bill of Entry (BOE) processing, MOFAIC documentation, and customs submissions.

• Drive resolution for operational challenges related to customs clearance and compliance.

• Safeguard original documents and manage related claims or refund submissions.

• Coordinate with billing and cost booking teams to ensure financial accuracy and accountability.

• Maintain accurate operational trackers, financial records, and service standards.

• Promote compliance, efficiency, and service excellence within the team, responding effectively to shipment priorities and customer requirements.

Required Skills To Be Successful:

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.

• Proficiency in using MS Office applications, especially for documentation and reporting.

• Ability to ensure compliance with government laws and regulations in customs clearance operations.

What Qualifies You For The Role:

• Bachelor's degree is required.

• 4-7 years of experience in customs clearance, freight forwarding, air import/export operations, or logistics documentation.

• At least 1-2 years of supervisory or team leadership experience in a customs clearance environment.

• Certifications or training in customs clearance, freight forwarding, or trade compliance are preferred.

• Hands-on experience with Dubai Trade, EDI, and Cargowise.
About Al-Futtaim Automotive
A major division of the UAE-based Al-Futtaim Group of companies, Al-Futtaim Automotive is an industry leader with presence in 10 countries across the Middle East, Asia and Africa.
Our core business activities at Al-Futtaim Automotive include distribution, manufacturing, leasing and aftersales, and we are firmly established as the regional representative of some of the world’s most iconic automotive brands: Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Volvo and RAM.
We are driven by a customer-centric approach, constantly pushing the boundaries on innovation, quality standards, and value-added service across our vast universe of customers - right from motoring enthusiasts to fleet operators to contractors. Our mission is to become the leader in custom-made mobility solutions by delivering nothing less than world-class omni-channel experiences.
We channel our local expertise and global trust to deliver one of the most comprehensive portfolios of mobility products and solutions, from passenger cars to SUVs, electric vehicles to high-performance motorbikes, commercial vehicles to industrial & construction equipment.
What keeps the company moving forward is a 9000-member strong team, with inspiring possibilities for growth, throughout the career path. This is Al-Futtaim Automotive and we empower talent to move forward.