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Mirriam S. — Senior Import and Export Controller from South Africa

Mirriam S.

Senior Import and Export Controller

South Africa 6+ years
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Languages
English
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About

Mirriam S. is a seasoned Import and Export Controller with over 20 years of expertise in logistics, customs processes, and international shipping. She has successfully managed high-level operations across sectors such as defence, manufacturing, and healthcare, demonstrating a proven ability to handle complex documentation, cross-border operations, and carnet coordination. Mirriam is highly proficient in Import & Export Compliance and excels in managing Customs Documentation, ensuring seamless regulatory adherence and supply chain efficiency. Her experience includes working with Fooderv Solutions, Thermo Fisher Clinical Studies, and SAAB Grintek Defence, where she managed full import and export operations, coordinated with freight forwarders, and ensured compliance with regulations set by South African authorities. Furthermore, her role involved managing project-based logistics and coordinating cold chain logistics for medical goods. Mirriam's logistical acumen is complemented by her comprehensive knowledge of INCOTERMS and route optimization, ensuring that shipments are executed efficiently to meet strict deadlines.

Experience

  • Import and Export Controller

    Fooderv Solutions · 2023 — 2025
    Oversaw full import and export operations, ensuring all aspects of shipment coordination across international borders. Handled permit applications and maintained compliance with South African Revenue Services (SARS) and ITAC regulations. Coordinated with freight forwarders, customs brokers, and internal stakeholders to facilitate effective cargo movement. Prepared and verified commercial invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin conforming to global trade standards. Proactively addressed shipment delays and compliance issues to mitigate risks. Maintained audit trails and export logs in accordance with internal controls.
  • Import and Export Controller

    Thermo Fisher Clinical Studies · 2022 — 2023
    Managed time-sensitive shipments for clinical trials, ensuring compliance with medical import/export regulations. Handled the processing of import/export permit applications for regulated medical goods while overseeing license validity. Communicated with pharmaceutical partners and international vendors to ensure the accuracy of shipping documentation. Coordinated cold chain logistics to meet transit requirements for temperature-controlled goods. Conducted audits of logistics documentation, maintaining thorough records for regulatory inspections and provided technical support regarding import restrictions.
  • Office Administrator

    BADER (Pty) Ltd · 2021 — 2022
    Managed the lifecycle of shipping documentation and maintained customs records for regulatory compliance. Handled applications for trade certificates including SADEC, EUR1, and Certificates of Origin. Compiled weekly reports on logistics performance and analyzed shipment delays. Engaged with freight forwarders to facilitate timely clearance and addressed exceptions proactively. Provided administrative support to procurement and supply chain functions while coordinating document flow between internal departments and logistics providers.
  • Import and Export Controller

    SAAB Grintek Defence · 2016 — 2019
    Controlled export/import functions for sensitive defence equipment under strict regulatory controls. Interfaced with DIRCO, NCACC, and SARS for export permit applications and verification processes post-clearance. Ensured compliance with ITAR and local arms control laws. Managed projects involving temporary exports for exhibitions, trials, and repairs, while keeping track of export control registers for authorizations and permit validity. Collaborated with legal, finance, and project teams to ensure efficient logistics execution.
  • Export and Project Controller

    ABB South Africa – Engineering Division · 2011 — 2016
    Coordinated logistics for large-scale engineering projects, managing heavy equipment transport and return logistics. Handled customs documentation and logistics scheduling for project milestones across various countries. Ensured adherence to INCOTERMS and specific documentation requirements based on country regulations. Supervised temporary exports and the return of tooling equipment as per project agreements, working closely with project teams to align shipment execution with delivery timelines.
  • Export Controller

    Tiger Brands · 2006 — 2011
    Managed end-to-end export documentation for multiple product lines distributed across Africa and Asia. Oversaw shipping instructions, inspection certificates, and Letters of Credit according to international banking standards. Collaborated with planning and production teams to synchronize order fulfilment with vessel schedules. Monitored customs compliance and container loading, ensuring proper documentation was handed over to forwarders. Maintained document retention for audit purposes while facilitating effective interdepartmental communication to resolve export delays.
  • Exports Coordinator

    MOL SA (Pty) Ltd · 2005 — 2006
    Processed container bookings, prepared bills of lading, and communicated shipping instructions to carriers. Managed hazardous cargo declarations and ensured compliance with IMDG code regulations. Generated manifests and submitted timely acquittals to customs and port authorities. Coordinated with terminal operators regarding equipment releases, stack dates, and container redirection. Acted as the primary contact for clients concerning shipment status and port documentation inquiries.
  • Founder / Owner – Export Sales

    Mapoto Enterprises · 1996 — 2004
    Launched and led international trading operations across SADC countries, including Zimbabwe, Malawi, and Mozambique. Conducted market research and established partnerships with distributors in sectors including water treatment and consumer goods. Oversaw cross-border logistics, customs clearance, and foreign exchange transactions. Handled procurement negotiations while managing international sourcing and margin analysis. Maintained comprehensive oversight of shipping documentation and permit applications to ensure compliance.
  • Customer Care Consultant

    Commercial Airways · 1994 — 1995
    Provided high-level service support across booking, reservations, and ticketing functions. Communicated with operational teams to confirm and amend passenger itineraries. Addressed client escalations effectively, ensuring high levels of customer satisfaction. Managed passenger records while coordinating with flight crews regarding pre-departure requirements. Supported telesales and initiated campaign-related travel promotions.

Education

  • Diploma in Export Practice & Management
    ICM – College of Business & Maritime Studies · 2006 — 2006
  • Diploma in International Trade & Transport
    ICM · 2006 — 2006
  • Diploma in International Trade Payments 1 & 2
    ICM · 2005 — 2006
  • Diploma in International Marketing Research
    ICM · 2005 — 2005
  • Diploma in International Business Environment
    ICM · 2005 — 2005
  • Customs Clearing & Forwarding, Airfreight Handling & Logistics
    College of Business & Maritime Studies · 2005 — 2005
  • Computer Literacy & Office Administration
    Havatech – Pretoria · 2001 — 2001
  • Travel Industry Course
    Kelly – Green Oaks Business College · 1993 — 1993
  • Ticketing & Fares
    SAA Training · 1993 — 1993
  • Matric (National Senior Certificate)
    Naledi High School · — — 1991