Commercial Manager - Compliance & Import Management

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1. Role Objective

To ensure end-to-end management of import operations and commercial compliances within the defence manufacturing ecosystem, in line with Defence Procurement Procedures (DPP/DAP) and statutory norms under DGFT, MoD, Customs, BIS, and related authorities. The role focuses on achieving timely, compliant, and cost-optimized imports and commercial transactions essential for defence projects.

2. Key Responsibilities

A. Defence & Statutory Compliance Management

• Ensure strict adherence to Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP/DPP) guidelines.
• Maintain compliance under DGFT, MoD, Customs, BIS, and other statutory frameworks.
• Obtain, renew, and manage Import Licenses, Industrial Licenses, and End-Use Certificates.
• Handle Offset obligations and coordinate with DGQA, DRDO, and other defence authorities.

B. Import Documentation & Control

• Manage complete import documentation (LC, COO, Bill of Entry, Advance Authorization, End-Use Certificates, etc.).
• Verify HS code classification and ensure control of restricted/dual-use defence items.
• Liaise with Customs, MoD, and DGFT for import clearances.
• Ensure compliance with ITAR, EAR, and MTCR where applicable.

C. Duty Management & Cost Optimization

• Utilize schemes such as IGCR, EPCG, Project Imports, and other exemptions applicable to defence imports.
• Optimize duty costs and control demurrage, insurance, and clearance-related expenses.
• Monitor forex fluctuations and ensure efficient handling of Letters of Credit (LCs).

D. Coordination & Stakeholder Management

• Liaise with MoD, DRDO, DGQA, and foreign OEMs for import and certification approvals.
• Coordinate with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and banks for clearance and payments.
• Work cross-functionally with procurement, QA, engineering, and finance teams for seamless operations.

E. Audit, Licensing & Record Management

• Maintain import and compliance documentation for internal audits, MoD audits, DGFT, and CAG requirements.
• Ensure traceable and secure documentation of all import and offset records.
• Implement corrective and preventive actions based on audit observations.

F. Offset & Vendor Compliance

• Support documentation and reporting for Offset projects as per MoD requirements.
• Conduct due diligence of domestic and foreign vendors under DAP compliance norms.
• Monitor and report vendor adherence to Offset obligations.

G. Process Improvement & Digitalization

• Drive automation and digitalization of import documentation and compliance workflows.
• Develop MIS dashboards for tracking import performance, duties, and compliance.
• Create and implement SOPs; conduct internal training sessions for continuous process improvement.

3. Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

• Zero statutory non-compliance or audit deviation.
• 100% documentation accuracy and timely submission of licenses.
• Reduction in import clearance and process cycle time.
• Cost savings through duty optimization and logistics efficiency.
• Offset and vendor compliance reports submitted on schedule.
• Successful implementation of digital compliance systems.

4. Competency Profile

• In-depth knowledge of Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) and Offset policies.
• Strong understanding of Customs, DGFT, FEMA, BIS, and related import/export laws.
• Familiarity with ITAR/EAR regulations for restricted and dual-use items.
• Experience in foreign procurement, LC management, logistics, and cost control.
• Excellent analytical, coordination, and stakeholder management skills.
• Proficiency in ERP systems, MS Office, and digital compliance tools.

5. Educational & Professional Requirements

• Qualification:

  B.E./B.Tech (Mechanical / Electrical / Electronics) or MBA (International Business / Supply Chain / Finance).

• Experience:

  Minimum

  8-12 years

  of relevant experience in import and compliance management, preferably in the Defence or Aerospace Manufacturing sector.

• Certifications (Preferred):

  EXIM Management, ITAR/EAR Compliance, or DAP Familiarization.

6. Review & Evaluation

• Monthly:

  Review of import operations and compliance status with Head Commercial / CFO.

• Quarterly:

  Strategic performance review with Senior Management / MoD liaison team.