Transport And Compliance Manager

Job Description
SCOPE OF JOB: Hermès Middle East is seeking a highly analytical, structured and proactive Transport and Compliance Manager to manage international air freight operations from Europe to Dubai, exports from Dubai to GCC countries and local transport from the local distribution center to the UAE stores. This role goes beyond day-to-day transport coordination. The successful candidate will be responsible for building a data-driven, performance-oriented logistics function, using reliable shipment data, operational KPIs, and regular performance reviews to identify inefficiencies, challenge service providers, adjust operational plans, and continuously improve lead times and service quality and optimize costs. The candidate must demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to provide accurate, timely, and proactive shipment visibility to all relevant stakeholders (Retail, Planning, Merchandising, Finance). They must be comfortable translating operational data into clear reports, highlighting risks before they become issues, and driving corrective actions with carriers, freight forwarders, customs brokers and internal teams. A strong understanding of UAE and GCC customs regulations, Dubai free zone procedures, and all relevant applicable approval, permits and certificates for import and export in the region, is essential (Cites, NMC, DTRA). Responsibilities Data-driven Transport & Performance Management
Manage inbound and outbound shipments across domestic, regional, and international networks ensuring compliance with agreed service levels, lead times, and cost objectives Execute import/export operations for UAE and QBK regions, including transfers, returns, and repairs with global partners (Hermès Sellier, LMH, Saint Louis, Puiforcat, John Lobb). Develop and implement a structured KPI framework to measure performance across the entire shipment journey, from booking and origin departure to arrival, customs clearance and final delivery. Establish clear baselines, targets, reporting frequency, and accountability for each operational KPI. Monitor actual performance against targets, identify deviations, analyze trends, and implement corrective actions to address recurring issues. Ensure data accuracy, consistency, and reliability across tracking systems, operational reports, and management dashboards. Develop standardized reporting formats, dashboards, and shipment trackers tailored to operational teams and management Communicate complex operational issues clearly and concisely, adapting the level of detail to the audience
Customs, Documentation and Regulatory compliance
Maintain practical, up-to-date knowledge of UAE customs regulations, Dubai customs clearance processes, and relevant GCC import/export requirements Oversee the accuracy and completeness of commercial invoices, packing lists, air waybills, certificates of origin, permits, and other applicable shipping documentation. Coordinate with customs brokers and relevant authorities to resolve clearance issues and minimize avoidable delays Demonstrate working knowledge of Dubai free zone regulations and applicable procedures for import and exports, transfers, and customs documentation. Understand CITES requirements and ensure appropriate permits, supporting documentation, and regulatory checks are completed for applicable controlled goods. Implement controls to reduce documentation errors, compliance risks, and unnecessary storage or demurrage costs. Maintain accurate records and ensure that documentation and clearance processes are traceable and audit-ready Coordinate with group insurance providers for shipment-related claims. Arrange surveys for damaged goods, manage documentation for insurance processes, and request approvals for high-value shipments.
Carrier and service provider management
Manage relationships with airlines, freight forwarders, customs brokers, and local transport providers. Conduct structured carrier performance reviews using shipment-level data and agreed KPIs. Challenge service providers on missed commitments, inconsistent performance, poor communication, and recurring operational failures. Identify opportunities to improve reliability, reduce lead times, and optimize freight expenditure without compromising luxury service standards.
Stakeholder communication and cross functional support and visibility
Establish a reliable shipment visibility process covering all shipments from origin booking through final delivery Maintain effective communication with customs authorities, freezone administrators, and internal departments. Support legal, finance, and supply chain teams on logistics-related matters, and assist in executing strategic projects such as store openings and events organization Act as the escalation point for critical shipments and ensure issues are followed through to resolution
Event & Special Shipment Coordination
Handle consignment, loan, and event shipments under ATA Car