Customs Clearance Team Leader - Air Freight

About Al-Futtaim Group and Al-Futtaim Automotive

Founded in the 1930s as a trading business, Al-Futtaim Group is today one of the most diversified and progressive privately held businesses headquartered in Dubai, UAE. Operating through five divisions—automotive, financial services, real estate, retail, and healthcare—the group employs over 35,000 people across more than 20 countries in the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. Al-Futtaim partners with over 200 leading global brands, driven by core values of respect, excellence, collaboration, and integrity to meet evolving customer needs.

Al-Futtaim Automotive, a key division headquartered in the UAE, is an established market leader operating in 10 countries across the Middle East, Asia, and Africa. It represents iconic automotive brands such as Toyota, Lexus, Honda, Jeep, Chrysler, Dodge, Volvo, and RAM. The division focuses on distribution, manufacturing, leasing, and aftersales, aiming to be a leader in customized mobility solutions through innovative and high-quality omni-channel customer experiences. The team powering this growth consists of about 9000 members with extensive opportunities for professional development.

Role Overview

The Customs Clearance Team Leader will spearhead customs clearance operations specifically for air freight shipments—both imports and exports—in Dubai. This leadership role requires managing a team responsible for the timely and compliant processing of customs documentation and regulatory submissions. The leader ensures the accuracy of Bill of Entry processing, works closely with billing and cost teams, and maintains service standards and documentation integrity.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct customs clearance activities for air import/export cargo ensuring prompt and compliant handling of regulatory paperwork.
• Supervise daily operations of the customs clearance team, overseeing workflow management and quality control.
• Guarantee precision in handling Bill of Entry (BOE), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) documents, and all customs submissions.
• Lead resolution efforts for operational challenges linked to customs and compliance issues.
• Secure original documentation and handle claims or refund processes related to customs paperwork.
• Liaise with billing and financial teams to ensure correctness of cost bookings and invoice accuracy.
• Maintain detailed records including operational trackers, financial documentation, and monitor adherence to service standards.
• Foster team compliance, operational efficiency, and commitment to customer satisfaction while responding effectively to shipment priorities.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Proven leadership and team management aptitude.
• Strong communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office suite for documentation and reporting purposes.
• Comprehensive knowledge of government customs regulations and adherence requirements.

Experience and Educational Requirements

• Bachelor's degree mandatory.
• Minimum 4 to 7 years experience in customs clearance, freight forwarding, or air import/export logistics.
• At least 1 to 2 years of supervisory experience managing a customs clearance team.
• Certification or formal training in customs clearance, freight forwarding, or trade compliance is advantageous.
• Familiarity with Dubai Trade portal, Electronic Data Interchange (EDI), and Cargowise software platforms.