Senior Specialist Inbound And Customs

adidas

Key Responsibilities

• Inbound Operations & Product FlowManage the efficient and timely movement of adidas products from factories to UAE DC and direct-to-customer shipments (UAE or China). Oversee scheduling, booking, and tracking of inbound shipments to ensure on-time arrival and accuracy.
• Service Provider & Stakeholder ManagementLead discussions and maintain strong account management with shipping lines, freight forwarders, and inbound service providers. Run regular performance reviews (QBR/MBR) and collaborate cross-functionally with Product Supply, Sales, OBF, and SCM Excellence teams to align on priorities and delivery plans.
• Documentation, Compliance & CustomsEnsure the accurate preparation and maintenance of shipping instructions, inbound documentation, SOPs, and HS codes. Monitor compliance with customs regulations and manage claims resolution when required.
• Visibility, Reporting & KPI TrackingProvide visibility of inbound forecasts across internal and external stakeholders. Build, monitor, and report on key KPIs, lead-time performance, detention & demurrage (D&D), port pendency, and container movement. Conduct monthly & quarterly analysis of actuals vs. targets and share results with stakeholders.
• Cost Control & GovernanceMonitor and control inbound costs, including freight, customs, and 3PL invoices, ensuring accuracy and approval. Identify opportunities for cost savings and efficiency improvements while balancing service quality and governance requirements.
• Projects & Global AlignmentSupport global logistics initiatives, tendering processes, and the implementation of key strategic projects and seasonal delivery planning.
• Team Leadership & DevelopmentProvide guidance, clear objectives, and regular performance reviews for team members. Set development targets, follow up on individual growth plans, and ensure smooth cooperation and network across the wider team.

Key Relationships

• Global & Regional:
• Product Supply
• Distribution Center
• Logistics Providers
• Finance
• Order Fulfillment

Knowledge, Skills And Abilities

• Expert in Inbound and Customs.
• Strong analytical skills and data driven decision making.
• Ability to deliver good results under pressure, accepting and meeting critical deadlines
• Ability to #CreateTheNew by challenging the status-quo.
• Motivated team player and willing to learn.
• Strong and proven analytical and communication skills with attention to details.
• Experienced in logistics and supply chain management as well as project management.
• Competence, experienced and high level of IT affinity (MS Office/Teams needed / SAP, WMS knowledge is a plus.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills including the ability to lead and influence discussions in diverse groups of varying size (internal & external).
• English & Arabic speaking and writing.

IT Skills

• Word | PowerPoint | Outlook: Good
• Power BI : Good
• SAP : Good
• Excel : Advanced