Company Description

Shayashone PLC (SYS) is a leading agribusiness company in Ethiopia, boasting over a decade of experience and a remarkable trajectory of transformative impact. As an icon of progress, the company’s expertise extends beyond agriculture and agri-business services, as it continues to diversify its reach into other sectors, driven by a profound commitment to serving the unserved. SYS’s unwavering dedication has left an indelible mark, reaching and empowering over 10 million farmers across Ethiopia and neighboring countries. This has been achieved through dynamic partnerships with local, international, and governmental organizations, fostering collaborative solutions to address the evolving needs of the agricultural landscape.

Throughout its journey of success, SYS has implemented a remarkable array of impactful projects. This includes training more than 7,000 agricultural extension workers and arranging technology demonstrations in over 10,000 villages across Ethiopia. At the heart of these accomplishments lies the Hermetic Storage Technology (Purdue Improved Crop Storage (PICS) bags), a pioneering solution that has gained widespread acceptance as the most successful technology in preventing post-harvest losses.

The company’s recent expansion into the educational sector further reflects its commitment to holistic development and its unwavering focus on addressing diverse needs within the communities it serves. In partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the Ministry of Education of the FDRE (MoE), and Arizona State University (ASU), SYS is implementing the project titled e-Learning for Strengthening Higher Education (e-SHE). This project aims to enhance the quality, accessibility, and affordability of higher education by launching a digital Learning Management System across public universities in Ethiopia.

Short Description of the Position

The Supply Chain Manager plays a strategic and hands-on role in managing Shayashone’s inbound logistics and import operations. This position is critical to ensuring the timely, cost-effective, and compliant delivery of goods and materials essential for production and sales. The role involves close coordination with internal departments, international suppliers, freight forwarders, and customs authorities. The Supply Chain Manager will oversee all aspects of the import process—including planning, documentation, clearance, and LC management—while ensuring smooth collaboration with the Finance, Production, Sales, and Warehouse teams to align imports with business needs and avoid operational disruptions.

Duties & Responsibilities:

Import Planning

• Collaborate with Production Planning, Sales, and Factory teams to assess material requirements and align import schedules with production targets.

• Prepare and manage annual and quarterly import plans based on consumption forecasts, sales projections, and stock levels.

• Monitor inventory turnover and lead times to maintain optimal stock levels and prevent shortages.

• Coordinate procurement and replenishment efforts to ensure timely availability of essential materials.

LC Management & Supplier Coordination

• Initiate, manage, and follow up on Letters of Credit (LCs) with banks and suppliers to ensure timely processing and shipment.

• Negotiate terms with suppliers, including payment conditions, Incoterms, delivery timelines, and service-level agreements.

• Maintain strong relationships with international suppliers, freight forwarders, clearing agents, and inspection agencies.

• Monitor supplier performance and ensure compliance with documentation and quality standards.

Import Process Management

• Review and ensure accuracy of all import documentation, including invoices, packing lists, certificates, and permits.

• Coordinate import licenses, permits, and clearances from government bodies; liaise with clearing agents to expedite customs processes.

• Monitor shipments, ensure timely bookings, and proactively address delays or route changes.

• Share real-time updates on shipment status and expected delivery dates with relevant departments.

Reporting & Compliance

• Maintain detailed records of all import transactions, costs, and documentation.

• Submit necessary documents to the Finance team to ensure timely processing of payments and accurate cost tracking.

• Generate regular reports on import performance, cost efficiency, and compliance metrics.

People Management

• Lead and support direct reports involved in logistics, import coordination, and documentation.

• Set clear goals and provide coaching to ensure high performance and continuous improvement.

• Foster a collaborative and accountable team environment.

• Identify capacity gaps and coordinate necessary training or development programs.

Education and Experience

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

• Minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in import operations, customs clearance, and supply chain management.

• Practical experience managing LCs and working with local banks, customs authorities, and international suppliers.

• Experience supporting manufacturing or production-related operations is highly desirable.

Benefits and Compensation

• Competitive salary and benefits package.

• Opportunities to work in a dynamic, impact-driven environment.

• Supportive and collaborative team culture with opportunities for professional development.

Why Join Us

• Competitive salary & benefits

• A growth-oriented and dynamic workplace

• A supportive and purpose-driven team culture to thrive and make an impact

Job Requirements

Expertise and Skills

• Strong knowledge of Ethiopian import laws, LC processes, and key regulatory institutions (e.g., ERCA, NBE, EFDA).

• Familiarity with INCOTERMS, international freight procedures, and customs documentation standards.

• Excellent coordination and communication skills with internal and external stakeholders.

• High attention to detail and a proactive approach to solving logistical issues.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and experience using ERP systems or shipment tracking tools.

• Strong organizational and time management skills to handle multiple concurrent shipments and deadlines.

Qualifications

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Business Administration, or related fields.

• Experience: Minimum 7 years of hands-on experience in import operations, customs clearance, or international logistics.

• Expertise: Practical experience supply chain management (including LC management, import regulatory requirements and process) and coordinating with local banks and international suppliers. Prior experience working with or supporting production or manufacturing operations is a strong advantage.

How to Apply

• Submit your applications exclusively through the following link.

SYS is an equal opportunity employer, and all staff will receive fair treatment without regard to age, race, national origin, disability status, gender, religion, marital status, condition of pregnancy, genetic information, or any other legally protected characteristics. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.