Company Description
Syngenta is a Global Agribusiness Company with its headquarters in Basel, Switzerland. We are a market leader in the breeding and production of Seeds and Cuttings for high-quality pot and bedding plants. In Kenya, we have two production Sites; Kenya Cuttings Limited based in Thika, and Pollen Limited based in Ruiru.
Job Description
The purpose of this role is to support the smooth flow of exports and imports by handling shipment planning, booking logistics, preparing accurate export/import and customs documentation, and planning for the availability of essential logistics consumables. The Trainee plays a critical role in ensuring timely, compliant dispatch of produce and uninterrupted supply of farm logistics materials
Accountabilities
- Assist in preparing and maintaining the weekly shipment plan based on production forecasts and sales orders, using the Farm Management System (FMS).
- Compile, verify, and submit all export documentation: invoices, packing lists, phytosanitary certificates, Horticultural Crops Development Authority (HCDA) permits, air waybills, and certificates of origin.
- Coordinate flight bookings with freight forwarders and airline agents, ensuring sufficient cargo space and timely dispatch.
- Track and monitor shipments to ensure compliance with customer delivery timelines and resolve any shipment issues.
- Prepare and follow up on import documentation for farm inputs and consumables e.g. fertilizers, media, seeds, packaging, etc..
- Coordinate customs clearance processes, liaising with clearing agents to ensure timely release of imports.
- Maintain updated records of all import licenses, certificates, and customs paperwork.
- Monitor inventory levels of key logistics consumables e.g., T&T Labels, Harvesting labels, Box content labels, etc.
- Maintain accurate consumables stock records and ensure zero stock-outs situations impacting operations.
- Ensure all logistics documents are filed systematically and are readily available for audits or inspections.
- Assist in maintaining compliance with Kenyan export/import regulations and phytosanitary standards.
- Support reporting activities by compiling logistics KPIs and shipment reports weekly and monthly.
Qualifications
Education qualifications and Experience
- Bachelor’s degree in Logistics, Supply Chain Management, International Trade, Agribusiness, or related field
- 1–2 years’ experience in horticultural export/import logistics or supply chain coordination
- Familiarity with customs procedures, export permits (KEPHIS, HCDA), and flight booking for perishables
Skills and Competencies
- Excellent attention to detail, especially in documentation
- Strong organizational and time management skills
- Good communication skills with internal and external stakeholders (suppliers, agents, airlines)
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Excel, Word, Outlook); experience with ERP systems is an advantage
- Knowledge of customs and phytosanitary processes for horticultural products
- Ability to plan, forecast, and manage logistics consumables materials stock
- Problem-solving and quick decision-making skills under pressure
Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)
- 100% on-time shipment and documentation completion
- Zero penalties or delays due to customs non-compliance
- Zero demurrage incurred due to untimely documents or late payments
- No stock-outs of critical logistics consumables
- Accurate and up-to-date imports and exports documentation
Additional Information
Working Conditions
- Office-based at the farm with daily communication with packhouse, freight agents, customs agents, and suppliers
- May require flexible working hours, especially during peak harvest/export periods or flight delays
- Occasional site visits to airport cargo handling areas, inspection points, or customs offices
