Overview
Westfalia Fruit is a leading multinational supplier of fresh fruit and related value-added products to global markets. Through our vertically-integrated supply chain we grow, source, ripen, pack, process and market quality avocadoes & fresh produce - 365 days a year & across the globe. With the largest avocado-growing footprint in the world, we are recognised as the leading #avoexperts and considered as the supplier of choice to both retail & wholesale customers whom we serve from sales offices in the UK, Europe, North America, Latin America & Southern Africa.
We are looking for an Import Accounts Manager to join our team in Kings Hill, UK. This role is focused on managing supplier payments, currency requirements, duty calculations, and freight invoice processing to maintain strong supplier relationships, ensure contract compliance, and support accurate financial reporting within a fast-paced, international trading environment. You will work closely with procurement teams, suppliers, port agents, and overseas partners, with a particular focus on Avocado, Industrial Citrus, and General Trade categories. The ideal candidate will have strong analytical skills, a proactive approach to cost recovery, and experience in international trade documentation and customs processes.
Responsibilities
* Manage supplier contracts and procurement agreements, ensuring full commercial and legal compliance
* Forecast USD requirements and collaborate with treasury and FX partners to ensure currency availability
* Oversee supplier payments, including advance and balance payments, aligned with agreed credit terms
* Manage procurement frameworks such as Open Price, and Fixed Price purchasing models
* Coordinate customs duty payments and ensure full compliance with UK/EU import-export regulations
* Lead payment-related communication between finance, procurement, and international suppliers
* Support category managers with financial insight across Avocado, Industrial Citrus, and General Trade
* Manage freight and logistics documentation, ensuring timely, compliant shipping of temperature-sensitive goods
* Track and process supplier rebates, claims, returns (RTS), and credit recoveries efficiently
* Uphold AEO compliance standards and monitor customs declarations, highlighting and correcting discrepancies
Requirements
Experience we look for:
Essential
* Proven experience in supplier payments, commercial finance, or supply chain finance
* Strong understanding of international trade, customs procedures, and freight documentation
* Experience working with procurement teams and international suppliers
* Proficiency in invoice processing systems and ERP software
* Excellent attention to detail and ability to manage multiple priorities under tight deadlines
* Analytical mindset with a focus on cost recovery and financial accuracy
* Knowledge of FX/currency planning and import/export duties
Desirable
* Bachelor's degree in Finance, Supply Chain, International Business, or related field
* Minimum of 5 years' experience in supplier finance, supply chain finance, or procurement accounting, preferably within the fresh produce or FMCG sector
* Strong understanding of perishable goods supply chain, import/export procedures, and international supplier compliance
* Experience with multi-currency payments, EU fiscal compliance, and customs clearance processes
* Familiarity with ERP systems (Prophet, Microsoft Dynamics)
* Experience working with global suppliers in Europe, South America, or Africa
* Knowledge of Incoterms, SPV structures, and compliance frameworks related to fresh produce
* Fluency in a second language is beneficial
* Familiarity with AEO status requirements is desirable
Benefits
* Hybrid working
* 23 days holiday, plus bank holidays
* State of the art office with fresh fruit, bean-to-cup coffee, freshly squeezed orange juice & avocado ice-cream
* Free on-site parking
* Company pension scheme with life insurance cover
* Employee Assistance Plan with Medicash
* Christmas hampers & a Christmas party
* Sausage roll Thursday & pizza lunch days
Please note that this position does not have a specific closing date. We encourage you to apply as soon as possible as we will be reviewing applications on a rolling basis and the advert may be removed at any time.
We're an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without attention to age, ethnicity, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, family or parental status, national origin, or veteran, neurodiversity or disability status.
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Contract
Job function
Finance
Industries
IT Services and IT Consulting
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