Are you an energetic, self-motivated professional ready to step into a leadership role within Customs Operations? South African Revenue Service (SARS) invites applications for the position of Operations Manager: Customs at various border posts across the country. This opportunity offers the chance to take on a vital role in ensuring the smooth execution of Customs & Excise operations, while maintaining the integrity and compliance of Customs procedures at key border ports.
Position Overview
The Operations Manager: Customs will be responsible for managing Customs activities and overseeing end-to-end processes within the Customs division at eight key border posts:
- Maseru Bridge (Free State)
- Kopfontein (Northwest)
- Mahamba (Mpumalanga)
- Caledonspoort (Free State)
- East London (Eastern Cape)
- Durban Office (KwaZulu-Natal)
- Cape Town Harbour (Western Cape)
- Beitbridge (Limpopo)
The role requires dynamic leadership, focusing on service delivery, compliance with Customs & Excise legislation, and operational efficiency. The selected candidates will supervise a team of professionals, ensuring that all Customs activities are executed within the stipulated regulatory framework and organizational mandate.
Key Responsibilities
- Leadership & Supervision: Provide strategic leadership and ensure operational activities align with SARS’ mission and objectives. Supervise and guide teams to meet deadlines and quality standards.
- Compliance: Ensure full compliance with Customs & Excise legislation, Standard Operating Procedures, and internal policies. Regularly assess risks, opportunities for improvement, and compliance gaps.
- Process Improvement: Develop, align, and implement strategies that promote continuous improvement in Customs operations. Identify, resolve problems, and optimize service delivery.
- Client & Stakeholder Engagement: Foster relationships with both internal and external stakeholders, ensuring effective communication and the provision of timely and accurate information.
- Resource Management: Plan and allocate resources effectively, making necessary adjustments to meet operational targets while maintaining budgetary constraints.
- Risk Management: Implement governance and risk management processes to mitigate potential risks and identify any previously unknown liabilities.
Ideal Candidate Profile
To excel in this role, candidates should possess:
- A Bachelor’s Degree or Advanced Diploma (NQF 7) in Supply Chain Management or Business Management, with 5-7 years of experience in the Customs environment, including 1 year at a supervisory level.
- Alternatively, candidates with a Senior Certificate (NQF 4) and 10 years of experience in the Customs & Excise field (including 1 year in a supervisory role) are also welcome to apply.
- Strong knowledge of Ports of Entry operations is an added advantage.
- Excellent problem-solving abilities, leadership, and communication skills are essential, along with the ability to make decisions under pressure.
Behavioral Competencies
- Accountability & Integrity
- Adaptability & Problem-Solving
- Strong Results Orientation
- Leadership & Team Development
- Customer Service Excellence
Technical Competencies
- Border Control & Management
- Compliance Inspection & Customs Knowledge
- Legislative & Regulatory Compliance
- Effective Business Communication
- SARS Systems Products
Employment Equity & Application Process
SARS encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds, including persons with disabilities, to apply. The successful candidates will undergo an oath of secrecy, pre-employment screening, psychometric assessments, and security clearance as part of the recruitment process.
Apply Today!
If you are ready to take on this challenging and rewarding role in Customs Operations, submit your application through the following link:
Apply Now
Applications close on 26 February 2025.
Be part of a dynamic team that drives operational excellence in Customs at one of the key border posts. Apply today and take the next step in your career with SARS!
