Head of Import (petrochemicals)

NextStepHR is Hiring for a Head – Import (AGM / GM Level) to lead the import function for an established petrochemical trading and manufacturing business. The role will own end-to-end international sourcing, procurement, logistics, customs compliance and cost optimisation, ensuring an uninterrupted and efficient import supply chain.

Location: Khanna, Punjab

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Take overall ownership of the import function and develop procurement strategies aligned with business requirements.
• Identify, evaluate and develop overseas suppliers, and build long-term supplier relationships.
• Negotiate pricing, payment terms, delivery schedules, Incoterms and commercial agreements.
• Track global market trends, pricing and supply availability to inform sourcing decisions.
• Own the complete import cycle — from purchase order to material delivery.
• Coordinate with suppliers, shipping lines, freight forwarders, CHA, ports and transporters for timely shipment planning and clearance.
• Monitor shipment status end-to-end and resolve operational issues as they arise.
• Ensure compliance with DGFT, Customs and all statutory import regulations.
• Oversee accurate import documentation — invoices, packing lists, bills of lading, certificates of origin, insurance documents and other statutory certificates.
• Analyse landed cost and drive cost-saving opportunities across freight, demurrage, detention and logistics expenses.
• Improve import processes through SOPs, automation and better supply planning.
• Lead and mentor the import team; set KPIs, allocate responsibilities and monitor performance.
• Ensure smooth coordination between purchase, finance, warehouse and sales teams.
• Prepare import performance reports and MIS for the Director/Management, covering shipment status, cost analysis, supplier performance and risk assessment.

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

• 15–20 years of experience in Import, Procurement and Supply Chain, including handling large-scale import operations.
• Strong knowledge of global sourcing, customs procedures and international commercial terms.
• Proven experience in supplier negotiation, logistics management and trade compliance.
• Strong cost-control and strategic planning capability.
• Experience leading and developing a team across procurement, documentation and logistics functions.
• Solid understanding of Incoterms, DGFT regulations and customs clearance processes.

IDEAL CANDIDATE PROFILE

• The ideal candidate would come from an import-heavy trading, manufacturing or petrochemical/commodity business with significant exposure to international procurement and logistics.
• The benchmark profile demonstrates strong overseas supplier relationships, customs and compliance expertise, cost optimisation track record and cross-functional team leadership.

WHY THIS OPPORTUNITY

• Lead and own a critical, high-impact import function end-to-end.
• Drive strategic sourcing decisions with direct visibility to the Director.
• Build and strengthen a large, high-performing import team.
• Play a central role in the company's cost efficiency and supply chain reliability.