Lead Logistics Specialist

PRIMARY FUNCTION

As a Lead Logistics Specialist, you will play a key role in reducing supply chain expense by supporting Target’s duty savings initiatives, including the First Sale Program, as well as maintaining Target’s high degree of compliance with US Customs laws and regulations.  

PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Support the First Sale Program

Process First Sale entries by analyzing vendor documentation to ensure compliance with First Sale valuation methodology.  Responsible for verifying the following data elements: original and First Sale values match documentation, appropriate additions and deductions are accounted for and transaction timing meets requirements. These data elements are submitted to Customs which allows Target to receive refunds based on the original duty paid. Responsible for analyzing and identifying errors within the First Sale entry to ensure accuracy prior to submitting monthly reconciliation file to US Customs.  Partner with external broker to make necessary declarations/corrections for submission and advise on broker inquiries to make necessary corrections to the file as needed.  If entries are rejected from Customs the CSI Specialist is responsible for analyzing issues associated with the entry and provides this information to the Manager. Responsible for properly managing and allocating multi-million dollar refunds. Provides direction to internal business teams to ensure funds are allocated correctly at the department level. Track receipts of funds including interest that must be appropriately allocate across merchandising departments.  Track program expenses and ensure that appropriate dollars are retained from refunds to pay for program expenses. Report vendor level refunds to Merchants and Sourcing.  Report department level refunds to vendors. Act as program liaison between Target and the vendor to gather the required documentation for submission to US Customs.  Monitor program level of service (LOS) to ensure team is within reconciliation program deadlines and on track to meet program annual savings goals. Facilitate vendor set-up including training vendor on document submission process.  Request revised documents as needed.  Continually provide feedback and training to vendors to maintain accuracy of documents. Coordinate assistance from and train team members as needed for First Sale entry processing.  Periodically audit First Sale entries to ensure compliance. Proactively identify any process or system issues that could impact LOS and address them with appropriate parties.  Monitor processes and procedures to ensure they are compliant with First Sale regulations.  Partner with Global Trade Systems and Process team to update procedures as needed. Compile and report weekly program metrics to management.  Assist in creation of quarterly Merchant and Sourcing update by compiling program data.

Trade Compliance

Monitor trade publications and US Customs regulations to identify potential impact to Target.  Partner with supervisor to communicate trade issues to appropriate parties throughout the corporation.  This may include merchandising, sourcing, import transportation and overseas offices. Act as team captain in compliance initiatives such as Ozone Excise Tax, Special Trade Program Review and Training Participate in special projects as necessary.

REPORTING/WORKING RELATIONSHIPS:

Reports to Director Transportation and Trade. Works closely with Merchandising, TSS, Vendors, External Consultants, other GTS teams and Customs Brokers.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• 4 year degree or equivalent experience
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.

• Strong written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and with a high level of energy and initiative.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage deadlines effectively.
• Works well with ambiguity
• Excellent interpersonal skills.