Customs and Transit Lead

Customs Compliance and Strategy:-       Define and maintain BWE Gabon's customs compliance framework in line with Gabonese customs law, the CEMAC Customs Code, and applicable international standards-       Lead the selection and management of customs regimes (ATS/ATN, temporary admission, definitive importation) for all inbound and outbound flows-       Monitor regulatory developments and proactively adapt BWE's customs processes and documentation standardsProject Customs Planning-       Lead customs planning for capital and drilling projects-       Coordinate pre-importation strategy with Procurement, Logistics, and Finance to optimise duty exposure and avoid delays-       Manage the importation of long-lead items, specialised equipment, and bulk consumables in compliance with applicable regimes-       Develop and present importation plans and regulatory roadmaps to management when requiredAuthority and Regulatory Relationships:-       Manage relationships with Gabonese regulatory bodies, freight forwarders and transit agents, ensuring performance, compliance, and cost efficiencyDocumentation and Records Management:-       Maintain accurate, updated trackers of all shipments in transit, locally purchased goods, and imported materials-       Oversee the archiving of customs files, declarations, and supporting documents in accordance with regulatory retention requirementsAudit, Legal and Risk Management:-       Lead BWE's response to customs audits, including preparation of documentation, coordination with Legal, and representation in proceedings-       Manage customs litigation matters and ensure all required evidence and compliance records are available and properly maintained-       Identify customs compliance risks and escalate to the Deputy Supply Chain Manager with proposed mitigationsTeam Supervision and Development-       Provide daily technical supervision and quality assurance over the work of the Transit & Customs Coordinator-       Develop the team's competency in customs regulations, documentation standards, and IFS usage-       Define and monitor team KPIs; report on performance and compliance to the Deputy Supply Chain ManagerCross-functional Coordination-       Coordinate with Procurement, Logistics, Warehouse, Finance, and Legal on all customs-related matters-       Provide customs input to tender evaluations, contract negotiations, and supplier qualification processes where relevant-       Ensure accurate and timely communication of customs status, delays, and risks to all relevant internal stakeholders

Bachelor’s degree in Customs Administration, Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, or a related field

·                Minimum 5 years of experience in customs clearance, transit management and import/export operations, with at least 3 years in the Oil & Gas or extractive industry.·                Proven experience managing customs regimes specific to Gabon or the CEMAC zone (ATS/ATN, temporary admission) – Prior experience with a freight forwarder or customs broker is a plus.·                Track record of direct engagement with Gabonese customs authorities and regulatory bodies·                Experience supervising or mentoring junior customs or logistics staff·                Exposure to customs audit management and litigation support is strongly preferred

·                Fluent in French; professional working level in English·                Strong communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage confidently at authority level·                High degree of autonomy and sound judgement in complex or time-sensitive situations·                Rigorous attention to detail and strong organizational discipline·                Ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously in a fast-paced operational environment·                Discretion and a strong sense of professional ethics

·                In-depth knowledge of Gabonese customs law, the CEMAC Customs Code, and applicable international trade regulations·                Sound understanding of customs valuation principles and contract registration requirements·                Proficiency in ERP systems, preferably IFS, for shipment tracking, goods receipts, and documentation management·                Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Office, particularly Excel (tracking, reporting, and data management)