Import Project Manager

This is a fully remote position, open to applicants in Illinois.

📋 Description

• Oversee designated import projects from intake through quotation, sourcing, product development, sampling, testing, production, shipment, customs/import coordination, delivery, and project closeout.

• Create project plans that outline timelines, milestones, responsible parties, and status updates.

• Ensure follow-through on tasks and escalate any risks, delays, or decisions that require attention.

• Manage multiple simultaneous projects with diverse complexities, urgency, product specifications, and delivery obligations.

• Keep precise records of project documentation, specifications, approvals, testing information, production details, and shipment data.

• Recognize process inefficiencies and propose enhancements that improve visibility, mitigate risks, and enhance speed and consistency.

• Solicit and analyze supplier quotes while communicating pricing, minimum order quantities, tooling, packaging, lead times, and other commercial factors.

• Oversee product specifications, artwork, samples, approvals, revisions, and readiness for production.

• Establish effective relationships with overseas suppliers, factories, trading companies, testing laboratories, and other external collaborators.

• Assist in resolving supplier issues and escalate concerns regarding quality, timing, cost, or service.

• Manage product compliance requirements, including testing, inspections, certificates, declarations, and supporting documents.

• Review testing reports and compliance documentation; track outstanding items and escalate failures, exceptions, or nonconformities.

• Maintain compliance records and aid in audit preparedness, documentation requests, corrective measures, and process controls.

• Identify and alleviate risks associated with imports, products, suppliers, and deliveries in collaboration with cross-functional partners.

• Oversee production readiness, freight planning, shipping documentation, routing, tracking, delivery timing, and issue resolution.

• Track shipments and manage logistics exceptions that may impact customer commitments.

• Prepare and gather commercial invoices, packing lists, certificates, bills of lading, and other import or shipping documents.

• Monitor sample approvals, production timelines, freight departures, customs clearances, and final delivery dates.

• Collaborate with Sales, Account Management, Sourcing, Compliance, Logistics, Merchandising, Finance, Operations, and other internal teams.

• Convert sales and customer requirements into actionable sourcing, compliance, product, and logistics strategies.

• Provide status updates, highlight necessary decisions, and propose solutions or alternatives when plans face risks.

⛳️ Requirements

• Minimum of 5 years of experience in import project management, sourcing, supply chain, logistics, product development, or a related field.

• Proven experience in managing sourcing activities, supplier communications, quotations, product specifications, samples, timelines, and production details.

• Experience in coordinating product compliance testing, inspections, certifications, or other quality and compliance documentation.

• Practical knowledge of international logistics, freight coordination, shipping documentation, and delivery tracking.

• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines within a cross-functional setting.

• Strong skills in project management, organization, prioritization, and follow-through.

• Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

• High attention to detail with an aptitude for identifying missing information, inconsistencies, and potential risks.

• Capability to interpret project requirements and translate them into clear actions, responsibilities, and deadlines.

• Skill in managing competing priorities and adjusting to evolving needs.

• Sound judgment, appropriate escalation, and ownership of issues until resolution.

• Proficient in Microsoft Office and project management, sourcing, or supply chain systems.

• Ability to work independently while also contributing effectively to a team environment.

• Bachelor's degree in supply chain, logistics, international business, business, or a related discipline is required.

• Preferred: experience in sourcing packaging, promotional products, branded merchandise, or other custom items.

• Preferred: knowledge of international trade compliance, customs requirements, product safety, or regulatory documentation.

• Preferred: experience collaborating with testing laboratories, inspection agencies, third-party quality partners, or corrective action processes.

• Preferred: experience supporting Sales or Account Management teams.

• Preferred: familiarity with Smartsheet, ERP, order management, supplier management, or logistics platforms.

🏝️ Benefits

• Comprehensive nationwide Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, and Disability insurance coverage.

• Optional benefits available.

• 401(k) Retirement Savings Plan.

• Health Savings Accounts (HSA).

• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA).

• Opportunities for career advancement and internal promotions.

• Access to HALO's influential global network and leadership development experiences.

• Recognition awards that can be converted into gift cards, trips, concerts, and merchandise.

• Reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities.