Head of Customs Operations/ Licensed CHA (Cofounder)

At JAQA Nexus, we are building a groundbreaking customs brokerage in India. Our vision is to transform complex global trade processes into seamless, transparent, and highly efficient operations for businesses. Through a strong commitment to technology and client-centricity, we aim to provide unparalleled customs house agency (CHA) services, empowering Indian businesses with compliant and cost-effective international trade.

The Opportunity:

We are seeking an exceptional, experienced, and licensed Customs Broker (CHA) to join us as a Co-founder / Head of Customs Operations. This is a foundational role for an entrepreneurial leader who is not just looking for a job, but a chance to build, innovate, and own a significant part of a venture designed for rapid growth.

You will be the bedrock of our operational excellence and regulatory compliance, directly shaping our service offerings and ensuring our clients receive best-in-class support for their import and export needs. This is a unique opportunity to blend deep industry knowledge with modern business strategies to create a truly differentiated service.

What You Will Do:

* Secure & Maintain Licensing: Drive the process of obtaining and maintaining all necessary Customs Broker (CHA) licenses for JAQA Nexus across key Indian ports.

* Build & Lead Operations: Establish and scale all customs clearance operations, processes, and standard operating procedures (SOPs) from the ground up.

* Compliance & Regulatory Expertise: Ensure absolute compliance with all Indian Customs laws, regulations (CBLR, 2018), Foreign Trade Policy (FTP), and other relevant statutory requirements. Act as the primary authority on all regulatory matters.

* Team Building: Recruit, train, and mentor a high-performing team of customs professionals.

* Technology Integration: Collaborate closely to integrate modern technology solutions (e.g., customs filing software, ERP, client portals) to enhance efficiency, visibility, and accuracy.

* Client Relationship Management: Oversee key client relationships, ensuring service excellence and addressing complex customs challenges.

* Strategic Growth: Partner with the business development team to identify market opportunities, develop new service offerings, and contribute to overall business strategy.

Who You Are:

* A Licensed Customs Broker (CHA) in India is NON-NEGOTIABLE: You must possess a valid Customs Broker License (CBLR, 2018).

* Experienced Leader: Minimum [e.g., 8-12+] years of progressive experience in customs clearance operations, with a proven track record in a supervisory or leadership role within a reputable Customs House Agent (CHA) firm.

* Deep Domain Knowledge: Expert-level understanding of Indian Customs Act, Customs Tariff Act, FTP, GST, and other allied laws and procedures.

* Operational Excellence: Demonstrated ability to streamline processes, improve efficiency, and ensure timely and compliant customs clearance.

* Entrepreneurial Mindset: You thrive in a fast-paced, startup environment, are a self-starter, problem-solver, and are eager to take ownership.

* Tech-Savvy: Comfortable with and enthusiastic about leveraging technology to improve operations and client experience. Experience with customs software and digital tools is a plus.

* Strong Network: Existing relationships within the Indian customs ecosystem (officials, port authorities, shipping lines) are highly advantageous.

* Communication & Leadership: Excellent communication, negotiation, and team-building skills.

What We Offer:

* Significant Founding Equity / Partnership Stake: A real opportunity to own a substantial share of the company you help build.

* No Salary at the moment: This is an equity-based, high-potential opportunity for an individual ready to be a true co-founder. Compensation will be primarily through equity and future profit-sharing/carried interest as the business grows and secures funding.

* Autonomy & Impact: The chance to define, build, and lead an entire operational function from scratch.

* Growth Potential: Be at the forefront of a company poised for rapid expansion in a critical sector.

* Innovative Environment: Work alongside a team passionate about leveraging technology and data for smarter trade solutions.

If you are a driven CHA professional ready to step into an entrepreneurial role and redefine customs brokerage in India, we want to hear from you!